Daniel Dumile—better known by his rap alias MF DOOM—turns 44 years old today. Running down his list of achievements feels never-ending, with collaborative projects alongside Madlib, Danger Mouse, Bishop Nehru, and Jneiro Jarel displaying his diverse catalog, as well as solo albums like Operation: Doomsday and Mm.. Food solidifying his presence as a pillar of the underground rap scene.
It's amazing to think that he's had such a prolific career in the shadows, so to speak, as he's taken on a mysterious approach that switches up with each and every rap alias: MF DOOM, Zev Love X (with KMD), Viktor Vaughn, King Geedorah, Metal Fingers, or simply the "Super Villain."
If you've followed DOOM's enigmatic career, you should be well aware that interviews with the rapper are few and far between, and also vary depending on which alias he's portraying. So we did some digging to get a closer look at the man behind the Metal Face mask. From his first rapper name, to the origins of his mask, sneaker collaborations, and his surprising friendship with one of the biggest rappers alive, there are a lot of gems here for the taking. Here are 20 Things You Didn't Know About MF DOOM.
His mother gave him the nickname “Doom” as a child.
One of his favorite albums ever is The Best of John Coltrane: His Greatest Years.
His first rap name was MC Dan.
KMD originally started as a graffiti crew.
He met MC Serch at an outdoor talent show.
At 19 years old, MF DOOM spoke to the Senate on behalf of Rock the Vote.
MF DOOM met 2Pac while on tour with Big Daddy Kane and 3rd Bass.
He played KMD's “Bl_ck B_st_rds” album at his brother DJ Subroc's funeral.
He was “damn near homeless” after being dropped from Elektra in 1994.
MF DOOM once followed the teachings of Malachi Z York, leader of the Nuwaubian movement who is currently serving a 135-year sentence on child molestation charges and violating the RICO Act.
His mask was initially similar to Darth Maul's before he and graffiti writer KEO settled on a mask from Gladiator.
The cover for MF DOOM and Madlib's “Madvillainy” was modeled after Madonna's debut self-titled release.
He is heavily inspired by poet and novelist Charles Bukowski.
He says he experiences synesthesia when recording.
MF DOOM collaborated with Nike SB for his own pair of dunks.
He also worked with Clarks Originals to create his own pair of Wallabee shoes.
He voted for John McCain in the 2008 presidential election.
In 2010, DOOM was denied entry into America, to which he replied, “I'm done with the United States. It's no big deal.”
He claims to be working on a book series for children.
MF DOOM is good friends with Kanye West, who was featured on a remix of “Gazzillion Ear.”
