"Hard Times" is a rap song written by Jimmy Bralower, J.B. Moore, Russell Simmons, Larry Smith and William Waring originally recorded by Kurtis Blow for his 1980 eponymous debut album. A 1983 cover by rap group Run–D.M.C. was issued as their second single, and is the first track on their eponymous debut album Run–D.M.C..