Beastie Boy and film producer Adam Yauch (MCA) has passed away

Last Updated on August 5, 2021

It is a sad day for music fans around the world as MCA (aka Adam Yauch), founding member of The Beastie Boys, has passed away at the age of 47.

The Beastie Boys were a seminal rap group who also explored other genres including punk rock and jazz. They were well known for their longevity having spanned four decades as a group. Their signature music videos brought a very cinematic quality that was absent from many videos at the time. Spike Jonze worked closely with the Beastie Boys and directed their most recognizable videos.

Yauch was also the founder of Oscillioscope Laboratories, a film production company that released several highly acclaimed independent films, including WENDY AND LUCY, THE MESSENGER, HOWL, MEEK’S CUTOFF, RARE EXPORTS: A CHRISTMAS TALE, WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN, EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP and BELLFLOWER.

Oscillioscope released the following statement: “We are deeply, deeply saddened by the passing of Adam Yauch – an amazing leader, a dear friend and an incredible human being. Today we are heartbroken at Oscilloscope as we take in this awful news and our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time. Adam’s legacy will remain a driving force at Oscilloscope – his indomitable spirit and his great passion for film, people, and hard work – always with a sense of humor and a lot of heart.”

Growing up at the height of the Beastie Boys popularity, their music is a soundtrack for my childhood. I have already received dozens of emails and texts from friends who are shocked by this passing. Much like when Michael Jackson died, I expect a revival in popularity for the band’s music. Yauch will be sorely missed by his fans. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his family and bandmates.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter

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Alex Maidy has been a JoBlo.com editor, columnist, and critic since 2012. A Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic and a member of Chicago Indie Critics, Alex has been JoBlo.com's primary TV critic and ran columns including Top Ten and The UnPopular Opinion. When not riling up fans with his hot takes, Alex is an avid reader and aspiring novelist.