I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t crazy for the Beastie Boys. In fact, I am pretty sure I was weaned on Licensed to Ill as opposed to Baby Einstein. But more importantly, I know I’m not the only one in this boat. Everyone has their own story of when they first heard “Sure Shot” or saw the “(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!)” video and wished they could somehow be that crazy-funny, crazy-clever, and crazy-badass.
It’s hard for me not to feel phony or insincere when it comes to the death of actors or musicians. They are people I never knew beyond their body of work–how does this make them different from an old lady that lived down the street or someone thousands of miles away who is victim to the same disease? Besides a passing “Oh, well that is unfortunate…” before I got back to my life, I never thought it seemed fair to grieve more or value a life more because someone won an Oscar.
When I read the news today, all of that went out the window. Hearing of MCA’s death was incredibly difficult, and for a moment I didn’t even believe it. Though he had been sick for a few years, and this was no secret, it still all seems so sudden and so strange.
So while I won’t be one of the overbearing people on the six o’clock news, running blindly into traffic as they weep uncontrollably, I definitely won’t forget his talent, his charity, or his humor. And something tells me that’s probably the way he would have wanted it.
I want to say a little something that’s long overdue
The disrespect to women has got to be through
To all the mothers and sisters and the wives and friends
I want to offer my love and respect to the end
I keep my underwear up with a piece of elastic
I use a bullshit mic that’s made out of plastic
To send my rhymes out to all of the nations
Like Ma Bell, I’ve got the ill communications
If you try to knock me you’ll get mocked
I’ll stir fry you in my wok
Your knees’ll start shaking and your fingers pop
Like a pinch on the neck of Mr. Spock
Don’t test me, they can’t arrest me,
I fake right cause I always shoot lefty.
You look upset, yo calm down
You look like Cable Guy dunked off of your crown.
I flow like smoke out a chimney, you never been me
You wanna rap but what you’re makin’ ain’t hip hop B
Pass me the scalpel, I’ll make an incision
I’ll cut off the part of your brain that does the bitching
Put it in formaldehyde and put it on a shelf
And you can show it to your friends and say “that’s my old self”
Now my name is M.C.A. – I’ve got a license to kill
I think you know what time it is – it’s time to get ill
Now what do we have here – an outlaw and his beer
I run this land, you understand – I make myself clear.
This was all that I could think of:
Couldn’t agree more. First time I’ve really been affected by a stranger’s passing, but that’s what I’ve realized: people grow very real attachments to celebrities who have been a mainstay in their lives. the Beasties have been with me for so long that they really are more than musicians; they’re touch-points in my life. Time to write my own blog entry on that very subject. Thanks for the inspiration and while you’ve quoted some great MCA lyrics, you missed my favorite: “People come up to me and they try to talk shit, man!? I was making records when you was sucking your mother’s dick!” Crude, but so, so funny.
This is so true…I, admittedly, have always been harsh in my judgements of people mourning celebrity deaths. Something about it always seemed shallow to me, but after this, after realizing how these people can inadvertantly become part of your life, I feel much differently.
Ah! How could I miss that line? Damn was he funny.
The Beastie Boys on Futurama was always the best. Just one of those little things that made them all the more endearing. Thanks for sharing this!
That was great! Second the thank you.
Busting rhymes at an 80% success rate… Haha
test
Yes…it was unreal learning of his death. Maybe if there was some sort of warning…
great videos, thanks!!
Reblogged this on Grey Space Whale Carrying On and commented:
I cried when I found out. He will be missed. He was one of my heroes after all.
It definitely was very difficult to hear. He had so many fantastic qualities and views–hopefully we can carry on these qualities of your hero.
A nice memorial….thank you.
Thank you for reading. I can only hope to do him justice!
i too cried…its not shallow to mourn something that was in many ways integral to our lives. One lone beastie I be.
Reading comments like yours just make me realize how the Beastie Boys were definitely an integral part of my life–and so many others, too. Just goes to show how powerful, in all of their weirdness–they are.
Was devastated to find out today that my favorite Beastie Boy and childhood crush had passed. A truly beautiful and talented soul.
He really was. I hope his causes continue to gain exposure and be fought for.
Thank you for reading.
Your post really touched me. So sad to hear of Adam’s death.
Thank you so much–I can only hope to do him justice.
Reblogged this on Jagurtmaster's Blog and commented:
hola
Nicely put. I just can’t believe MCA is gone.
Thank you, sir.
I can barely believe it, either. It still feels almost surreal.
Well said. Thanks.
Thank you–It was definitely hard to even find words, but I can only hope I did him justice.
I feel slightly worse about his passing than I know I should, but you are right. Man did good damn work.
If there’s one thing I am learning from reading everyone else’s reactions, it’s that the Beastie Boys had a strangely powerful effect on everyone, so don’t feel guilty about how you’re feeling in the least. He was incredible and will most certainly be missed!
Such a tragedy…
:(
It really is…Even though everyone knew he was sick, I don’t think something like this ever even crossed my mind.
Thank you for reading.
thankx for this article
And thank you very much for taking the time to read what I have to say!
So sad. RIP, MCA!
It really is–so unexpected, too. He will be missed!
Thanks Katie, It’s great to remember the good times, I remember wearing out my first walkman with Rhymin’ and Stealin’ (I was big on pirates as a kid, and this song put me over the top, lol)
It definitely is. I can tell you I watched the “No Sleep Til Brooklyn” video at least three times today and it just put the biggest smile one my face.
But that’s such a great story! I can see why you would wear out the tape, though–their songs are meant to be listened to over and over again in order to find all of those little quirks and one-liners.
…Now I have to go listen to Rhymin’ & Stealin’!
Pingback: No Sleep ‘Til: The Best of MCA « Podcast Talent Coach
Thanks Katie, great video! I fell in love with the Beastie Boys when I found a BBoys casette tape on the floor of my Art teacher’s car during a school carwash! So sad to hear of MCA’s passing.
No way! That’s such a neat story…it’s always so interesting to reflect on things like that…
And it is definitely hard to deal with right now…I guess we can just do our best to survive everything he stood for!
Thank you for reading.
This is well done, and thank you, may your days be blessed… WS
Thank you very much! I am glad you like what I have to say–it was difficult to find the words, but I hope I did him justice.
Thank you for reading.
Reblogged this on syndrigast and commented:
RIP
I’ve listened to their records for the first time around 1989 while still living in Soviet Union. I didn’t know English back then, so I could not understand and appreciate their lyrics, but their music got to my heart any way – it was so powerful and free.
This is so interesting! Even as a native English speaker, I find it difficult to pick up on all of the little in-jokes and side-notes in their lyrics. It’s awesome to read there is someone who appreciated their music on a whole different level.
If you are ever looking for a cool sort-of decoder to their lyrics, this website is awesome: http://www.beastieboysannotated.com/
Thank you, Kate! Great web-site!
I have always been one to counter with cynicism when people react so intensely to a complete stranger’s passing. “Sure it’s tragic. But it was a celebrity, it isn’t as though you KNEW them”. This one was different. Finding myself taken aback by how intensely sad I’m feeling. Seeing now that his art had a far more profound place in my personal history than I even realized. The world has lost one of the greats – a visionary and an extraordinary human being. Absolutely heartbreaking.
Exactly. This is exactly how I feel. Only now am I realizing how harshly I have viewed others who mourned someone like Michael Jackson or Heath Ledger. While I do think there is a certain “Oh, so NOW you’re a fan of them?” factor in all of these situations, MCA’s death really hit me hard.
Thank you so much for reading. He really will be missed.
Reblogged this on fuqmagazine.
It’s fresh, it’s got a funky beat. And I can bug out to it.
B-Boy Bouillabaisse will forever be one of the greatest things ever created.
Reblogged this on word vom and commented:
perfect post is perfect– i couldn’t have said better myself.
RIP.
Hey Kate,
Really enjoyed your post. We did a similar piece http://beardedgentlemenmusic.com/2012/05/04/r-i-p-mca/
R.I.P. MCA
Thanks! I’m glad you liked what I had to say. I will definitely have to check out your post–thanks for the link!
Thanks for this. Your selections were spot on.
I’ll be rocking Beasties all weekend.
And thank you for reading. MCA’s verses weren’t always as pronounced, but when I was reading through lyrics, picking out ones for this post, it was awesome to see just how witty and biting he was.
Good blog! I heard them first while in high school during the 80′s. Didn’t really appreciate it all until I got into my thirties (late bloomer, I guess).
As someone who ALWAYS listen’s to the lyrics, they were just the right mix of crazy, funny, obsurd and right on for me. “Packed like sardines in a tin. So kick off your shoes and put on your swim fins.” I love that line. ;) R.I.P. to a great creative mind. Thanks for the memories…
Hey, it’s all good! I know not everyone was into their bratty 80s ways, but that’s one of the cool things about them is listening to different albums and comparing how much they grew over time.
As for their lyrics, I couldn’t have put it better myself! This website actually has some really need facts & sidenotes…
http://www.beastieboysannotated.com/
Just checked it out. Very nice! Me likey!
I’m with you. When I read he had passed, oh, my stomach hurt. I didn’t believe it. I wrote about it too – and I understand now why my mom was so wrecked when Elvis died. Some people may be like, but Elvis is ELVIS, but dude, MCA is MCA. Fully a class act. I feel like a little piece of my heart broke off today…Nice to be able to share the sentiment with others…thanks for your post…
It’s been wonderfully overwhelming to see what an impact the Beastie Boys had on everyone else, too!
I will definitely go check out your post. I am glad you like what I had to say. He will be missed!
I know. I totally agree. I sat up last night feeling sad and just looking at pics and comments which I have never ever done before. NOT one person had anything bad to say about him. And THAT’S rare. You know, since we grew up with them, it is different, personal. It IS wonderful to see the impact and response.
I can relate. Musicians inspire us most, so their deaths affect us most. When John Denver died, I wept. It was the only time I ever wept over the death of someone I didn’t know personally.
That’s exactly how I feel right now–and it’s definitely something I wasn’t expecting to feel which makes it all the more frustrating.
At the same time, it’s incredible to read all of these comments and see what an honest, powerful impact MCA had on people’s lives!
Thank you very much for reading.
Hey Kate Foo -
thanks for the reply on my page, I appreciate your kind words. I co-organized a chicken coop tour in my area and we held it today, the chicks and everyone at my coop rocked out to Beastie Boys all day, as a mini form of tribute…
So I made a little connection earlier tonight and I wanted to share it with you – since we (and so many others) are having similar feelings about MCA’s passing – I’d love to hear your thoughts..think you’ll get a kick out of this – I did when I made the connection – Gotta love the small things that can give you a little peace…
http://ifyoucouldseewhatihear.wordpress.com/2012/05/06/adam-yauch-fred-rogers-collaboration/
Thanks For Posting.
http://www.seawindsolution.com
And thank you for reading!
Great music – great band for my youth. Love you Adam.
http://www.theboydcapitalgroups.info/
He will definitely be missed. Thank you very much for reading.
Kate, cheers so much for posting this – a very personal & tender tribute. Also dead pleased that freshly pressed acknowledged his passing. Currently rediscovering the genius of Paul’s Boutique all over again…
Thank you very much for reading! I’m glad you like what I have to say.
And yeah, that was a pleasant surprise to see WordPress put it up–if only it wasn’t something so tragic.
But I am in the same boat! I have been playing “Hello Nasty” over and over and over again!
A great tribute. Played Ill Communication again & it felt still fresh.
I couldn’t agree more. When I was making this post yesterday and I was listening to “Sure Shot” it still felt as sharp and funny and all-around ingenious as ever.
Thank you so much for reading–I’m glad you liked what I had to say.
In November of 2004 I had the pleasure of photographing 3 of my favorite people in the world, the Beastie Boys for an Italian magazine . It was my first cover story . it was an experience i will never forget. they were the most kind and respectful people i have ever come across in the music industry and I have photographed a few musicians. I have posted some of the photos from the magazine on my blog with a little story about a lunch I had with Adam Yauch in 1992. It was a sad day when Adam left this world, he will always be remembered.
That’s an incredible story–I will go check it out ASAP.
Thanks for checking out what I had to say.
everyone was so affected by the music of this group. they brought people together from all over the world and from every culture. as sad as the subject matter is i really appreciate your post. just a really sad day in music…thank you so much for posting your thoughts.
Reblogged this on and commented:
MCA RIP. A fitting tribute that I could not have done any better. Courtesy of Kate Foo.
View the post here;
http://digitizedgraffiti.com/2012/05/05/2687/
Lovely tribute. didn’t realise just how much Mr. Yauch was responsible for the soundtrack of my late teens to present. Hello Nasty was the first CD I ever bought- it’s still in my glove box somewhere, all scratched to hell and with tape holding the jewel box together. Thanks, Kate!
I couldn’t agree more–it’s something we don’t consciously realize, and now upon reflection, it’s crazy to see what an impact they had.
Thanks so much for your comment–you should dig out that CD!
Nice tribute-post. RIP MCA.
Thanks so much–I hope I did him justice. He will be missed.
I just can´t believe someone I have been listening to for so long is dead.
Reblogged this on The Bear Up There.
Reblogged this on Make Something Every Day and commented:
For Jackie M…
Great group, great music. Thanks for posting :)
And thank you very much for reading!
Reblogged this on viewworldindia.
You really should post this poem on http://www.dversepoets.com after 3pm EST today, think it would go down very well. Or look up the very talented http://poemsofhateandhope.com/ for a similar MCA themed poem. My musical memories poem posted today is here http://wp.me/p2dIML-4K
Oops, sorry I meant lyrics to poem, but still relevant all the same.
Listening to Intergalactic right now..
Nice! I have been jamming out to Hello Nasty all day…it’s almost surreal to hear his verses and know he’s not around anymore, huh?
Although very much a part of my generation, the Beastie Boys were not a part of my pop culture at all. But I completely understand your point. For me, that moment wasn’t associated with the death of a celebrity, but perhaps something worse–when the Reagan family finally acknowledged that Ronald Reagan had Alzheimers. The sadness they so clearly displayed to the public touched something very deep inside me. I had a really difficult evening (I was out in public when I heard the news) and no one around me understood the reaction I was having; damn, I didn’t understand it myself. So, like you, I try to be more compassionate toward people who seem to go into over-the-top grieving mode over people they really never knew.
This is a touching story–thank you for sharing.
The feeling is definitely very strange and hard to comprehend, but it’s really quite lovely to be able to read everyone’s thoughts and see we’ve all been in the same boat at one point or another.
Thanks so much for reading!
Lovely Eulogy, Kate. Fantastically mashed and blended. Can’t wait to read more and my apologies I did not know of you before this sad story. The Beastie Boys are fantastic and MCA represents an integral part of them. The Zen Soul warrior poet side that balances out Adrock’s aggression and Mike D’s all-around lady-killer status. I identify most with the warrior poet, personally and thank you for sharing your own thoughts!
Thanks so much! I’m honored you like what I have to say.
Zen Soul Warrior Poet really is the perfect way to put it. Some of his verses are so aggressive and raw, but when you contrast that to something like Bodhisattva Vow, it paints a really beautiful portrait, doesn’t it?
****I’m nodding**** in a Zen fashion, with a charming pastoral Tibetan smile. I am in complete agreement. A beautiful juxtaposition…
It was the same for me – I can’t remember ever being affected by the death of someone famous, but I felt gutted when I read about him dying. Like you, I can’t ever remember not being crazy about the Beastie Boys. I feel like I just lost a part of my childhood.
It’s been surprising/touching to read how many people have experienced this same range of emotions–he, and the Beastie Boys in general–were treasured for so many people for so many different reasons. It’s pretty awesome…
Thanks so much for reading and sharing your thoughts.
Reblogged this on confessionsofalineman.
Amazing aim.it could be actual i hope
Great honest post; I put something similar on my blog yesterday, too. Music that feeds us fills in the gaps and crevices of our experiences and lives, and the death of someone whose work truly does that (and it is rare) truly makes one ache in the most nostalgic way. This combined with the fact that Yauch was a sincerely kind and generous-in-spirit person in life I think makes it even more rattling. I’m with you, most celebrity deaths don’t effect me and I find most reactions in the general public off-putting. Adam Yauch’s way-too-young passing is different.
You definitely put it perfectly–it is aching in a very nostalgic way. Part of me feels unfair for looking skeptically at those who intensively mourn random celebrities when I feel so shaken because of this, but you’re right–his passing does feel so different.
Thank you fro reading and sharing your thoughts! I’ll have to go check out your post!
yea, I was a sad day yesterday
It definitely was. Thanks for reading.
crazy funny? certainly. crazy clever? definitely. crazy badass? not even close. they were clowns who figured out how to entertain people with goofy stuff. nothing badass about them. white guys trying to rap.
I will agree to disagree. Personally I think trying to free the people of Tibet is slightly badass, but to each their own.
Thanks for reading & sharing your thoughts.
Reblogged this on UNMASKED and commented:
There are few “celebs” who when they pass away make me feel like I lost a friend. Adam would be one of them. Musicially talented and a true activist for human rights. RIP
Reblogged this on unicornivore and commented:
RIP MCA
REBLOGGED and much appreciated, doll. He will be missed. His lunatic hilarious style on stage and his calm, zen, cool and collected demeanor offstage made him that much more alluring and intriguing as a true mc of the ages. Ya think late 80′s, all of the 90′s and they even blasted thru into the 21st century kickin ass. What a great loss, I hope his passing will inspire other artists known and unknown to take the chance to hop out on stage and give it a go.
rock on.
Thank you for this awesome comment.
In an earlier comment, someone described him as a “Zen Warrior Poet” which couldn’t be more fitting, I think! He was definitely a fascinating character and really a hero.
Fight for Your Right was the teenage beer-drinking battle cry of my day. I spent many nights listening to these guys as a teenager…and we still pull out Licensed to Ill at parties.
I love reading comments about memories like this and then comparing it to their political/progressive later work. It’s kind of awesome to see that they grew along with everyone else.
Thanks for reading & sharing your thoughts!
Reblogged this on InspiredWeightloss! and commented:
Nice, unique!
Great post. I feel the same way you do. Even though I knew he was sick, it’s still a shock to think he’s gone. It’s more than just the loss of one man’s life; in a way, MCA’s death marks the end of an era. (At least, that’s how I see it). Fortunately, his music, activism and memory will live on.
Congrats on being “freshly pressed,” by the way.
That’s so true…the Beastie Boys really represented an era in music/culture/politics…
Thanks! It was a pleasant surprise, for sure. Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts!
I have followed the Beastie Boys since i was about 10 years old. They have been with me every stepof the way since. I have always used their music tohave fun and enjoy things, as well as cheer me up when i was down or needed encouragement. This is a sad day indeed. I am not ashamed to say that I LOVE THE BEASTIE BOYS and all they have done for me and the rest of the world. Many articles will say how the BBoys crossed color lines and opened hip hop up to white communities. I believe that anyone good at what they do will be able to cross all boundries and make this world a better place, just like Ad Rock, Mike D, and MCA did. God bless you Adam.
-It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.
George S. Patton
Thank you so much for sharing your story! I love reading how everyone’s lives have really been impacted by their music.
Great quote, too. I am sure MCA would agree :)
Thanks for reading & sharing your thoughts!
In 1986 I was a DJ in Chicago. A go-go dancer from the club went to see the Beastie Boys at Cabaret Metro and met them afterward. She came to our club later that night and raved about what sincere and polite young men they were. It made me glad to be a fan. My deepest condolences to Mr. Yauch’s family.
That’s so neat! Stories like this always make me feel that much more connected to them and weirdly proud of them for being such cool people in general.
Thank you for sharing!
Like this
Well said. I have my own fond memories of the Beastie Boys, in particular getting stuck and sucked into a mosh at a Beastie Boys show in the mid 90′s. Oh what a fright, but a wonderful tale it left me to tell.
A true talent was lost and he will be missed. Thank you for writing :)
Oh man, I bet that was rough the next day, haha! I’m sure the concert itself was incredible, though. Even just watching videos of their live performances give me chills!
Thank you for reading & sharing this great story!
well written. loved this article, too:
http://gawker.com/5907763/
Thanks for reading, and thanks for the great link!
love it. sad weekend, but we have to celebrate MCA and his incredible life.
Definitely! That’s the way he would have wanted it–less mourning, more living on in his spirit!
A most excellent post, very well put. I saved my three dollar a week allowance for what seemed like forever in my grade school mind, in order to purchase Paul Boutique on cassette. When that golden day arrived, I called up some friends and we met in the park with a nice sized boom box. We didn’t get all of what was being thrown at us, the drug and party references, etc, but we were experiencing a new world of sound. A day I will never forget.
This is an incredible story. It so wonderful to read how the Beastie Boys have been a part of people’s lives for so long; how they have pretty much grown up alongside us. Thank you so much for sharing this.
Nice posting. God photography. Thanks for sharing.
The Beastie Boys were an integral part of how I came to understand America and one of few bands that transcended all the grade school cliques. I agree wholeheartedly with your point regarding mourning celebrities when they pass, but its a bit different when for example music plays such a strong role in one’s life. This is even more important given the shift in music in the 2000′s so thank you for your post and for your perspective.
This is definitely true–music does have such a profound impact on us and it’s unfortunate it took me until now to realize that fact.
I love reading stories like yours, though, about how they were such a prominent force growing up.
Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts!
Well written Kate. This news is very sad, I’ve been listening to the Beastie Boys for 26 years and it’s really sad that he’s gone. I’ve been rockin’ their music the past couple of days. Something has definitely been lost with his passing.
Thanks–I can only hope I did him justice. I guess we can only hope his passing will give his causes greater strength and support.
Thank you for reading & sharing your story!
the only other time i felt affected by a musicians passing was when John Lennon Died, granted I was only 10 but I knew he just seemed more than just a musician.
That’s how i feel about Adam, cancer runs in my family so that’s probably part or why i was hit so hard,,,the bboys were a huge part of my life and i honestly always loved that Adam was more laid back of Adam H & Mike D
I feel the same way about MCA–I believe someone earlier referred to him as a “Zen Warrior Poet” I loved how his verses could be so aggressive and raw, but at the same time so poetic and meaningful.
I wasn’t around when Lennon died, but I definitely remember George’s passing. That was certainly a strange time.
Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts!
it is me….. i like it very much
This is a very well written piece and i fully agree.
Thanks! I’m glad you like what I have to say.
Very nice post, I got in after 4am this morning, put on the teletext news & read about MCA. For a man who achieved so much & did so much to help others less fortunate than himself, its a shame he died so young. Strange how the good die young & assholes seem to live forever.
So true! He was definitely way too young to go…It’s amazing to look back and see how much he was able to accomplish, though. I’m sure all he would want is for those causes to live on.
Thank you for reading & sharing!
I have been listening to the Beastie Boys for a long time. He will be missed.
I could not believe it when I heard the news.
It really was so sudden and so unexpected…He definitely will be missed!
Thank you for reading!
No problem. Thank you for posting it.
First time a celebrity death has affected me since Kurt Cobain and River Phoenix back in the early 90′s…the Beasties have always been part of the soundtrack of my life. End of an era.
It really is, isn’t it? It’s like they grew up alongside the rest of us, changing and meshing with the times, but always staying true to themselves.
Great piece for a great and singular voice. Was surprised by how effected i was hearing that he’d died but then, like most people, i probably thought that the Beasties were going to be around forever.
Definitely–they’ve always been a constant presence in so many lives that the thought of one of them being gone is hard to fathom.
I’m glad you liked what I had to say–thanks for reading.
You have to check out this old Oprah episode regarding the Beastie Boys lyrics and how “parents were terrified”. LOL
this is funny!
i’ve been listening to the Beasties since i was about 5 or 6 and i do not remember their lyrics having any affect on me. of course at that age i didn’t really understand what they were talking about.
Oh my lawd…this is wonderfully funny! Thank you for sharing!
Adam Yauch is a legend who will never be forgotten. The Beastie Boys opened the doors of hip-hip for me as a young teenager. And I kept up with them for the last decade.
Especially for a twenty-something like me who grew up listening to the Beastie Boys, it’s incredible to think that someone so young could already be gone. You know MCA had so much more vitality in him, so much more positive energy and creativity to give the world. He will be missed.
I really do hope his voice and his causes live on. Just like you, they opened the door to hip-hop for so many people, as well as so many amazing musicians.
It’s hard to imagine he’s gone…
Thank you for reading!
Reblogged this on the Go Bunny Books blog and commented:
Throwback to my childhood via Kate Foo http://katefoo.com/
It’s meaningfull to me, thanks for your hardly written :)
Rest In Peace.
I’m with you. This was the first musician that actually made me step back for a second. I was truly sad. He was probably the first from my generation to go, which is probably like yours as well, that I grew up with and actually affected me. He didn’t feel like a 47 year old guy, he was infinately cool and young. A terrible loss in music.
Definitely. Maybe I just hadn’t reached the point in life where it really hits you and really registers, but I think it’s something more–just like you said, it’s something we grew up with and that really just makes it hurt all the more.
I just wrote about my thoughts on MCA. Loved yours. Please stop by and check out my post. THe video makes me cry every time “Sending our love to the Beastie Boys!”
Thanks for reading what I had to say–I’ll definitely be checking out your thoughts!
Pingback: No Sleep ‘Til: The Best of MCA « Kate Foo. « El Crack Inglés Blog
Reblogged this on Sydney Aaliyah and commented:
This one hit me hard. RIP MCA
Reblogged this on slownsteadywinstherace and commented:
As a 29yr old chick from New England, I have always, always dug the Beastie Boys. Seriously, I always loved MCA the best, maybe even an ‘older guy crush’ thing happening. 4th grade I had the Check your Head TAPE and it blew me away. I remember the exact moment it clicked, even then. Raised around Music of all genres, I knew from an early age what music was all about.
That’s so awesome–thank you for sharing this story! It’s incredible to see how the Beastie Boys had such an impact on people from even the youngest of ages…
i cant sleep till MCA rests in brooklyn,r.i.p.
the question that I would like to ask here is; if you lose someone who is a role model to your life, won’t you feel it? celebrities have turned out to be peoples’ role models. it may not necessarily be a celebrity per say but may be to you because as long as I’m concerned, who ever I cherish and adore is my own celebrity. if I lose that kind of person, I will definitely weep.
http://www.trueloverelationship-advice.com
This is a very true point. Perhaps I am just too cynical for my own good!
I feel that MCA is different from your everyday celebrity, though, and certainly someone that should be cherished for his work and his charity.
Thanks so much for reading and sharing your views!
The Beastie Boys were definitely part of the soundtrack of my adolescence. No. Sleep. Till. Brooklyn!!! I’ve always loved the energy of the group, and MCA was of course, an integral part of that. This is a nice write-up, which does more to humanize the person versus the celebrity.
It’s been so cool to read how many people feel that the Beastie Boys have grown up alongside the rest of us.
I’m glad you liked what I had to say! Thanks for reading!
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Great blog post and thank you for putting up that tribute video. I had not seen that. It’s hilarious, disturbing and brilliant all at the same time. Very “ill”. You’ve got a great blog Kate!
Well thank you!
That video is a little bit ridiculous to say the least, haha! I think they released it as a promo for their latest album? Either way, it’s classic Beastie Boys humor.
Thanks for reading and leaving your kind words!
RIP-
thank you for writing this!
i didn’t cry when i heard the news but it definitely stopped me in my tracks. i still can’t believe it!
i am so very glad that i got to see the Beasties live and i’m so thankful for that!
my he RIP
Seeing them live must have been an incredible experience! I never had the opportunity, but even just watching videos you could feel the incredibly high energy and see how much fun they were having. Lucky you :)
It was the hello nasty tour and it was insane!!! I can’t even describe in words the energy. I’ve been to ALOT of concerts and to this day I can honestly say that was the best so far!
They closed with sabotage and the crowd was going crazy. The floor was shaking!
I would like to have seen them sooner just to get more of the older songs but they still played some of them. It was truly amazing!!
This is the first time that one of my true musical heroes has passed – a really hard stop for me to reflect on how much their music meant to me. MCA and the Beasties have a profound influence that is only becoming clearer as we realize that they aren’t here for us forever.
This is such a poignant way to put it…After the initial shock, the hard part really comes when we have to realize they really aren’t here anymore.
Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts!
Reblogged this on grandmarant.
Hey Kate, I just came across a never aired BBoys performance from what was supposed to be the 3rd season of the Dave Chappelle show…pretty freaking awesome performance, thought you might enjoy!
http://redheadjourney.wordpress.com/2012/05/07/too-good-not-to-share/
Awesome! Thanks so much for leaving this link!
What a great post. As said in the blog I normally pass on the mass grief that come with a celebrity death. Im not sure why. MCA’s news breaking made me stop reflect and bring a silence and inner lip quiver. I seen many gig however the energy seeing the beasties in 98 at the Manchester Arena England still resinates. Such guile and delivery. Stud down the front during Sabotage with a broken toe :)
MCA most defiantly had the skills to pay the bills :)
Stand easy brother
Wow, that sounds like an incredible experience! Their live performances just sound absolutely amazing–so raw and full of energy!
Thank you for sharing this awesome story!
Their live performances WERE absolutely amazing – I got to see them three times – and someone posted here that the floor was shaking at the show they were at – one of the shows I was at the floor actually BROKE!! It was at this janky place that had wrestling events called the Sportitorium in Dallas, in 1992. Henry Rollins opened, and Cypress Hill played too. One of the shows I was at we ended up hanging out with them afterward – my friend was a wizard at being in just the right place at just the right time, and it was just me, a couple of friends and the boys and we all just sat around and talked. I remember feeling so happy that they weren’t jerks or just looking to score chicks, I loved them so much that would have been a real downer. But they were just cool as hell and nice. Just GENUINE. Good memories. Good times. MCA was always my favorite and having a conversation with him, just shooting the shit was rad. Always loved that voice. As I said before, he’ll be missed.
This is a wonderful tribute to a visionary artist.
I have trouble getting emotionally involved with celebrities. Well, let me restate that. I don’t get emotionally involved with celebrities. I enjoy music and movies and sport, but don’t think the participants are any more special than you and I. And to be honest, I don’t think there is anything tragic about a privileged life ruined by excess. It’s sad, yes, but not tragic. With celebrities, I’m entertained but there is no lasting bond created.
I found myself questioning this when Adam passed away, however. My formidable years were spent hysterically wading through the fads and fashion that were the 80s. Yes I, too, had the Michael Jackson zipper pants and matching jacket…
I also saw the rise of MTV, and with it a whole new flood of artists. A large part of that was the rising popularity of east coast rap. I vividly remember seeing MTV premiere the video for “Fight For Your Right (To Party)”. I was hooked.
The Beastie Boys became part of the soundtrack of my youth. Of my life. As I close in on 40 years old, I still listen to their music. I still have vivid memories of dates and places and people across thirty years. There was a bond created with a complete stranger, a completely one-dimensional emotional connection that rooted itself into my life and never let go. His death wasn’t the same as losing family, but it was loss nonetheless. That his life was filled with positivity and creativity and a modesty rare in music (rap especially), makes that loss even more heartfelt.
I feel very fortunate to be able to spin his records endlessly…if only to remember. Thanks for putting together this post!!!
You put this absolutely perfectly–in fact, you summed up my own feelings better than I was able to!
Indeed, I am often left frustrated when people place a higher value on a life because of celebrity status. And when the life of a celebrity draws to a close due to the “excess” you mentioned, it always bothers me to see people blindly mourning and praising that life without question.
You put it very beautifully how the Beastie Boys really have grown up and meshed with a generation–even if certain people weren’t as lucky as you to have experienced every step of that journey (re: Michael Jackson zipper pants) they still had such a great power to remain fresh and innovative and current.
His modesty, positivity, and creativity, just like you said, are really what made him such a unique and endearing figure–someone that really made you want to look up to him and listen to what he had to say, musically or not.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. What an awesome comment!
Nice tribute to MCA. I just mentioned him in a recent post too. One of my fave songs was Paul Revere. That song always put’s me in a better mood. Oh yeah, congrats on being FRESHLY PRESSED!!!
Thanks for reading what I had to say!
Paul Revere is an absolute classic–it’ll never get old! It’s just too funny and too awesome.
And thank you :) It was a nice surprise!
Reblogged this on Stephen Ormsby.
nice post.
Thank you :)
Great post. Like everyone has already said, the Beastie Boys were such a huge part of my formative years (I remember my high school BFF and I blasting Sure Shot as she drove for the very first time after getting her license), and MCA’s passing is very sad. I know he had been sick, but the Beastie Boys is just one of those groups I always expected to be around. You can really tell what a great person he must have been based on how many people have been affected by his death.
That’s such a fantastic story! My brother and I did something very similar right after he got his license, too!
But you’re so right–there were warning signs, but it was always like “Come on, they’re the Beastie Boys! They aren’t going anywhere!”
Thank you so much for sharing your story!
Reblogged this on 8BIT.
A great dedication to a true great
Thank you — he was an incredible man!
Reblogged this on Bradley's Raw Data Feed and commented:
Hearing of MCA’s death on Sunday (Australian time) was somewhat of a shock. The world has lost a bodhisattva, so we each have to work a bit harder to fill that gap.
Here’s a tribute you might enjoy…
love your words, hope he rest in peace,bless!!
Thank you. I’m honored you like what I have to say :)
So sad, I cried when I found out. He will be missed forever.
Definitely incredibly sad and hard to deal with. He will be missed, that’s for sure. Hopefully his memory gives his causes strength!
Thank you for reading!
Great I like ^^