Beastie Boys Adam Yauch (MCA): August 5, 1964 - May 4, 2012 Videography

MCA Adam Yauch:  Dead at 47

The original Beastie Boy, Adam Yauch, wanted to create a hardcore punk band.    After some members came and went, the final trio:  Mike D, Ad-Rock, and Mix Master Mike added rap to their style.    They released the landmark album "Licensed To Ill" in 1986 and opened for the Madonna "Like A Virgin" tour.  They changed rap forever!  Beastie Boys  were the first rap group ever to have a #1 Billboard Album.    Rolling Stone described that LP, "Licenced To Ill", as "Three Idiots Create A Masterpiece".   Then came Paul's Boutique, a master course on the use of sampling along with innovative rap rhymes.    

Sadly, we lost their leader, Adam Yauch, on Friday to his bout with cancer.   Within weeks of their induction into the 2012 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.    Adam was involved in NYC causes, politically active, and being a devout Buddhist, he led the Tibetan Freedom Concerts in the late 90's.   

Adam will be missed.   In memorial, here are my 5 favorite Beastie Boys songs of all-time.   "Sabotage", "Brass Monkey", "Egg Man" get honorable mention. 
#1   NO SLEEP TO BROOKLYN (2006)

#2  AN OPEN LETTER TO NYC (2004)

#3 SHE'S ON IT  /  SLOW AND LOW  (2006)

#4  INTERGLACTIC (1998)

 #5    HEY LADIES  (1989)