Celebs Respond to Death of Beastie Boys’ Adam Yauch, A.K.A. MCA

“Hip Hop is Aging….” a friend recently told me. And today’s news is a prime example. TMZ has confirmed that Beastie Boys rapper Adam Yauch, better known to hip-hop heads as MCA has passed. In 2009, he revealed that he was being treated for a cancerous parotid gland and a lymph node. It is unclear if his death is related to his cancer. The Beastie Boys were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame this year and they gave a performance at the event, which will be televised Saturday. Fans and celebs continue to react on Adam’s death.

Russell Simmons:

Adam was incredibly sweet and the most sensitive artist, who I loved dearly. I was always inspired by his work. He will be missed by all of us.

God Bless the soul of Adam Yauch aka MCA of the Beastie Boys. RIP

Crushed to hear the news of Adam Yauch’s passing. A true pioneer of art. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. #RIPMCA

Diddy:

RIP MCA …..

Rev. Run:

R I P Adam… I’m devastated. Praying for Adam Yauch’s family from the legendary Beastie Boys. Youll be missed!

The Recording Academy® released a statement, sending their condolences:

As a co-founding member of the three-time GRAMMY^®-winning Beastie Boys, Adam Yauch was part of one of the most groundbreaking trios in hip-hop. The group’s music crossed genres and color lines, and helped bring rap to a wider audience. A rapper, musician and director, Yauch was an immense talent and creative visionary, and an instrumental force in the group’s career for more than three decades. In addition to his music and artistry, he was a philanthropist who devoted much of his energy to his passionate support for freedom of expression. The music world has lost a true trailblazer, and our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and fans throughout the world.

Stay tuned for more details.