It’s been over a decade since the world lost Beastie Boys founding member Adam Yauch, better known as MCA, but his influence remains as powerful as ever, especially on the day he was born.
Today would’ve marked Yauch’s 60th birthday. The visionary rapper, filmmaker, and activist passed away on May 4, 2012, after a three-year battle with cancer. He was just 47 years old. His death came only weeks after the Beastie Boys were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a well-deserved recognition of the group’s trailblazing legacy.
At just 22, Yauch helped change the sound of hip hop forever with the release of Licensed to Ill, the Beastie Boys’ groundbreaking debut album. Not only did he lend his voice to some of the group’s most iconic tracks, but he also directed many of their music videos. As the group’s popularity soared across hip hop, punk, and alternative scenes, Yauch continued to evolve creatively—building a state-of-the-art recording studio in New York and launching an independent film company through which he directed several acclaimed projects.
Each year, his hometown of New York City honors him with “MCA Day,” a celebration of his cultural contributions, community activism, and the love he shared with fans around the world.
Adam Yauch may be gone, but his legacy continues to inspire across generations.
Happy Birthday to one of Hip Hop’s Pioneers! RIP