Hip Hop pioneer Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of Run-DMC has anointed DJ Scratch the title of “Jam Master,” a moniker most recognizably held by the late Jam Master Jay.

With history between the two deejay/producers that dates back to 1988, Jay played an integral role in Scratch’s involvement with EPMD and would later join the group as their official deejay. Since then, DJ Scratch has gone on to expand his career achievements, including work with Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes and 50 Cent.

Inheriting the new name with sincere gratification, DJ Jam Master Scratch told AllHipHop.com, “I dropped so many tears about this. Me being recognized for my 22 years of work by a king [DMC], is my ‘Lifetime Achievement Award.’”

Honorably paying respects to the late legend, he added, “I will continue to represent JMJ. Only practice makes a real Jam Master.”