Beastie Boys MC Adam Yauch, aka MCA, has passed away at the age of 47 due to cancer

The Beastie Boys are one of the most influential hip-hop groups of all time, and were instrumental in bringing hip-hop to the mainstream. The band was formed in 1981 by Yauch with Michael Diamond (Mike D), and Adam Horowitz (Ad-Rock).

Yauch also ran a film production and distribution company, Oscilloscope Pictures, which included documentaries on Le Tigre and William S. Burroughs.

Yauch was diagnosed with cancer in 2009, resulting in a canceled tour and the delay of the Beastie Boys’ final album Hot Sauce Committee. The Beastie Boys were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last month. (via TMZ)