Iconic and popular songs by the Beastie Boys
Let me introduce some tracks by the Beastie Boys, a music group that was signed to the legendary hip-hop label Def Jam Recordings.
Although the Beastie Boys primarily operated as a rap unit, they originally formed as a hardcore punk band.
Because of that origin, many of their songs strongly feature rapcore elements, blending punk with hip-hop.
Their debut album became the first hip-hop album to reach number one on the Billboard charts, and they are often said to have ‘brought hip-hop to the suburbs.
‘ They had a major impact not only on the hip-hop scene but also on the rock scene.
Let’s look back on the Beastie Boys’ music with this playlist.
Beastie Boys’ Greatest and Most Popular Songs (1–10)
Ch-Check It OutBeastie Boys
Even if you don’t know the Beastie Boys, many of you probably know this song.
Above all, the catchy rap that makes you want to hum along is addictive! The orchestral hits and scratching in the track are awesome, too!
Sure ShotBeastie Boys
This track features a loop that sounds like an analog synth flute, creating a strange and mysterious atmosphere.
The snare sound used in the beat that comes in partway through has a slightly metallic hardness, giving it a feel that’s a bit different from the usual Beastie style, doesn’t it?
SabotageBeastie Boys
When you think of the Beastie Boys, I bet this is the song that comes to mind for many people.
It was released in 1994, but it still sounds fresh and cool even today.
When it came out, the music video—depicting a drama about police officers—generated a lot of buzz.
(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party)Beastie Boys
Included on their 1986 debut album, Licensed to Ill.
Incidentally, the album’s cover art served as the inspiration for Eminem’s 2018 album Kamikaze.
In the early years of Beastie Boys, their work had a strong rock influence, and the style of layering rap over that sound became a sensation.
Brass MonkeyBeastie Boys
This track draws your ears to the catchy chorus verse that makes everyone want to sing along, and the saxophone phrase flowing behind it.
It’s uptempo and would definitely hype up a live show.
The music video has a vibe like it was shot at a live performance, so check it out if you get a chance!
IntergalacticBeastie Boys
“Intergalactic” is one of their signature tracks from the later period of their career.
The music video was filmed in Japan and features scenes of Tokyo’s cityscape and trains.
The song has an old-school vibe that feels like a return to hip-hop’s roots.
Paul RevereBeastie Boys
As the title says, sampled material is reversed all over the track.
There are especially a lot of reversed cymbals! For the time it was released, this must have been quite a groundbreaking approach, don’t you think? I believe this was also back when sampling time was only a few seconds!