MCA was wit’ it and he’s my ace.

The world lost a true humanitarian today. Beastie Boys member Adam Yauch, also known as MCA, died Friday, May 4th, 2012.

In 2009, The Brooklyn-born rapper, known as MCA, was diagnosed with cancer in his parotid gland and a lymph node and underwent surgery and radiation therapy. He was 47 years old. After his diagnosis, Yauch made a video to share the announcement. with fans.

He was the Buddhist Beastie Boy. Adam Yauch was a friend to the world. A voice of equality and freedom for everyone, Adam Yauch was a staunch supporter of Free Tibet. The Beastie Boys have held an annual Free Tibet concert since 1998 raising money and awareness for the plight of the Tibetan people.

A rep for the Dalai Lama gave a statement:

“Adam had helped us raise awareness on the plight of the Tibetan people by organizing various freedom Tibet concerts and he will be remembered by his holiness and the Tibetan people.”

Yauch was 22 when the Beastie Boys kicked in the door of rap music with 1986 release of “License to Ill” on Def Jam Records. MCA said “Yippeo Yo, you know this kid?”

Who doesn’t remember seeing (You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!) and wishing you had the nerve to do the same thing? I would have been grounded forever. They were my rebellion gurus.

In total, the band released eight albums including “Paul’s Boutique,” “Check Your Head” and ‘Ill Communication.” I have been a long time uber fan of the Beastie Boys. I wrecked a car listening to “Intergalactic.” Don’t ask. The group’s last album, “Hot Sauce Committee Part Two,” was released last year. It was originally planned for release in 2009, but was delayed after Yauch’s diagnosis

In my car you will find every Beastie Boys CD released. Today, my brother texted me to announce MCA’s death. I was in Alfalfa’s and forgot why I was there. I bought chocolate. Hearing about the passing of a Beastie Boy, truly made me look at my own mortality.

The Beastie Boys aren’t supposed to die.

Adam Yauch is survived by his wife and daughter. My sincere love and highest respect to the family and the Beastie Boys. Much Love.

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Editor: Kate Bartolotta