This revelation occurred after the death of Jam Master Jay and while DMC was going through a deep depression. He began to question his purpose and place in life. DMC invited VH1 on his journey to track down this other family he never knew was out there. Premiering Saturday, February 25 at 9PM, “DMC: MY ADOPTION JOURNEY” documents that search as the first special from the “VH1 Rock Docs” franchise.

Born on May 31, 1964, DMC grew up in a loving household with his mother, father and older brother. He was raised in the middle class neighborhood of Hollis, Queens in New York City amidst the burgeoning hip-hop scene. It was there that he formed Run-DMC and forever changed the face of music.

As DMC embarked on this courageous search for his birth mother he had little information to go on. Given only what might be his biological mother’s name DMC sought help in many places. He visited various government agencies and the hospital where he was born. He then turned to The New York Foundling, an organization in New York that specializes in child welfare and family services. With their guidance, he worked with Pam Slaton, an adoption search specialist and also attended Adoption Anonymous meetings for support.

The four month search created a roller coaster of emotions as DMC was faced with daily disappointments mixed with hope. All the while, his adoptive family struggled to understand his need to search for his roots. The end result provided closure for DMC and an important piece of clarity on life that he was looking for.

In addition, this life changing journey also prompted DMC to put his experience to music in hopes that it would help people who may be struggling just as he was. On March 14, DMC will release his first ever solo album Checks Thugs and Rock ‘n Roll on RomenMpire Records / From Rags 2 Riches Records. Musically rich, the album features a virtual who’s who of artists from various musical genres.

They include Sarah McLachlan, Kid Rock, Elliot Easton (The Cars), Run, Josh Todd (Buckcherry), Doug E. Fresh, Gary Dourdan (“CSI”), DJ Lethal, Ms. Jade, Sonny Black, Napoleon (Outlawz) and Romeo Antonio. Other songs featured on the recording include “Watchtower,” “Freaky Chick” and “Just Like Me,” with backing vocals by Sarah McLachlan.

“DMC: MY ADOPTION JOURNEY” is the first documentary to premiere under the “VH1 Rock Docs” franchise; an all new slate of high-end feature-length programs. Each of the documentaries will reveal an untold story in the history of rock and hip-hop music, combining never-before-seen footage with a unique and unconventional narrative approach. The documentaries will tell some of the most unique stories of the artists and music from a wide range of genres, styles, and musical perspectives.