MCA Day(s): B-Boying to Beastie Boys B-Sides

Groove Holmes – Beastie Boys

Definitely, my favourite obscure Beasties track, Groove Holmes was 15 tracks deep on the highly acclaimed Check Your Head album. The instrumental features Richard Arnold Groove Holmes  taking the spotlight, It was done as a tribute to Holmes one year after his death.

Dis Yourself in ’89 (Just Do It) – Beastie Boys

From the infamous Paul’s  Boutique,  this sampled driven track produced by the Dust Brothers,   demonstrates how innovative sampling was back in the day. The song reminds me of true-school Hip Hop, with scratching and samples from James Brown, Sweet, Edwin Starr, Malcolm McLaren, West Street Mob, and even a skit from Monty Python’s Flying Circus. 

Stand Together – Beastie Boys

Another track from Check Your Head,  the Boys said it was about time to stand together. The track was performed in 67 known concerts. The first known one being at Michigan State University on May, 17 1992 – just over 20 years before the passing of MCA who died May 4, 2012.

Do It – Beastie Boys feat. Biz Markie

They did it. Biz and Beasties teamed up for this track from the ’94 release, Ill Communication. This underrated gem, showcases the Boys in pure Beastie form, emphasizing the production style that made us fall in love with them. And as a bonus, there’s the Biz.

MTL Reppin’ for the 514 – Beastie Boys

As rare as you can get, MCA, Ad-Rock and Mike D loved Canada. They even gave a huge shout out to Montreal on the B-side of the 2005 single, An Open Letter to NYC. 12″

Go Here to check out what went down on MCA Day 2015

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