BREAKING: Beastie Boys Member MCA, Adam Yauch, Dead at 47

Sad news to report today in the world of music, as "Beastie Boys" member MCA has died.

Sad news to report today in the world of music, as “Beastie Boys” member MCA has died.

The news was first reported by Russell Simmons‘ website GlobalGrind.com. MCA, whose real name was Adam Yauch, announced in 2009 that he was being treated for a cancerous parotid gland and a lymph node.  It is not clear yet if the death was related to the cancer battle, as Yauch had undergone surgery and radiation therapy.

MCA co-founded the Beastie Boys back in 1979 with Mike D, and Ad Rock.  The three went on to create some of the most iconic albums in hip-hop, including License to Ill, Paul’s Boutique, Check Your Head and Ill Communication.  The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame earlier this year.

Yauch is survived by his wife and daughter. He was 47 years old.

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