Which hip hop group released “The Message,” the socially conscious 1982 single featuring the line “Don’t push me”?

Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five released “The Message,” the socially conscious 1982 single featuring the line “Don’t push me.”

The song was released by Sugar Hill Records in July 1982. Although the group’s name appears in the title, Grandmaster Flash had little involvement in the actual recording, and the instrumental backing was created by the production team. Rappers Melle Mel and Duke Bootee delivered the verses describing poverty, unemployment, crime, and urban hardship.

“The Message” helped move hip hop beyond party-focused records and demonstrated that rap could address serious social realities. Its stark synthesizer line and repeated warning became central to its identity. The song is also distinct from the group’s earlier dance-oriented material.

The track entered the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2012. In 2007, it was selected for preservation in the US National Recording Registry, which recognizes recordings considered culturally, historically, or aesthetically important.