when a musician passes away, especially one you've listened to for over a decade in your life, a little piece of you dies too. the beastie boys got me through high school. they kept me motivated through college. the first time i saw them live was the best concert i've ever been to. sabotage was my team's song my rookie season on the windy city rollers.

i remember first hearing the news of mca finding a tumor in his throat and finding out cancelled their tour that year. i remember the video where he made it seem like not a big deal. but cancer is no one's friend, and unfortunately not everyone can beat it.

read more about his contribution to the beastie boys, as well as the foundation he started and his independent film company in this article by the new york times.

thanks for all you've done, mca. we'll miss you.