News of Adam Yauch’s (aka MCA) death arrived earlier today as the 47 year-old rap legend lost his battle with cancer. While the Beastie Boys were a vital part of Hip-Hop’s formative years, their contributions echo to this day.
Musically, the Boys were something of a melting pot–fusing various elements of sound within a rap landscape. But what the Beastie Boys also provided was a reference point in streetwear, where urban-inspired threads spoke to the time period in music. If you check the current wardrobes of some of your favorite rappers today, you’ll find a lot of repeats from styles the Beasties already tested and approved.
While everyone will be honoring the Beastie Boys’ music in remembering MCA’s life, Hip Hop Wired checks out the visual element that the Beastie Boys delivered to Hip-Hop and beyond. Check out the photos in the gallery.
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Photos: Getty, AP
While Run-DMC maintained the mantra of “My Adidas,” the Beastie Boys definitely carried the torch.
Not all rappers can pull off a suit and still come across as street, but the Beastie Boys sure did.
In a world of hipsters who think they’re reinventing the wheel, there are three boys really from Brooklyn who are here to prove them wrong.
Known for making simple styles into complex fashion statements, the Beasties could turn a t-shirt and jeans into something fresh.
Rappers like to boast big chains these days, but here’s proof the Beastie Boys had bigger. [Editor’s Note: The Volkswagen piece, >.]
They were never out to claim they were something they’re not. Just a couple of regular guys out to do something extraordinary.
With roots in NYC’s famed Punk scene, the Beastie Boys found a way to be welcomed by Hip-Hop while still keeping it real to themselves.
Beasties show off some Beatles swag.
If your favorite rapper likes to sport a leather jacket on occasion, now you know a possible reason why.
Once “Intergalactic” hit the ground running, for a brief moment these suits were a thing.
Back when co-signs didn’t come a dime a dozen; MCA rocks a varsity jacket and skateboard, early.
Whether on a stage, a skateboard, or a street, the Beastie Boys made it a point to always keep things super fresh.
Ad Rock’s highwaters are questionable but MCA and Mike D’s well worn adidas still will stunt all over you.
