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 Popular Songs Ranking [2025]
- Beginner’s Guide to the Beach Boys: Best and Most Popular Songs
- The Beach Boys Popular Song Rankings [2025]
- [Western music] Classic upbeat hip-hop tracks
- Western pop music popular with Gen Z. Hit songs.
- [Western Music] Hardcore Punk Masterpieces and Popular Songs – Beginner’s Guide
- [US] Great Hip-Hop Classic
- RUN-DMC's Most Popular Songs Ranking [2025]
- [Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies
- [Western Music] A landmark masterpiece in hip-hop history! A fundamental album you should know
- A Guide to Western Rap: Introducing Legendary Classics
- Classic punk songs from Western music. Recommended popular tracks.
- Western Music: A Collection of Iconic Big Beat Tracks (Great for Rock Fans Too)
Beastie Boys’ Greatest and Most Popular Songs (21–30)
Body Movin’Beastie Boys
A track released in 1998 by the American hip-hop group Beastie Boys.
It samples Amral’s Trinidad Cavaliers’ 1973 track “Oye Como Va.” The track was remixed by Fatboy Slim.
Licensed To IllBeastie Boys
Until Eminem broke through, the Beastie Boys reigned as the face of white hip-hop.
They can play instruments and were also a punk band, so their hip-hop is characterized by a somewhat strong rock influence.
Beastie Boys’ Famous and Popular Songs (31–40)
DedicationBeastie Boys
It’s a track included on the album ‘Hello Nasty.
‘ Throughout the entire song, the sound makes it feel like a UFO is constantly flying around, which is really striking, and it has more of a toasting vibe than a straight rap.
They always amaze me with fresh, innovative ideas, and this song doesn’t disappoint!
GratitudeBeastie Boys
It has the vibe of a garage punk band’s track, but once their rap comes in, it instantly transforms into the Beasties’ world.
At first listen, the distorted bass sound seems to set the mood of the song, but surprisingly, it’s the tone of the congas in the background that feels like it gives the track its persuasive power.
Three MC’s and One DJBeastie Boys
The kick drum rhythm you hear in this track—there are a lot of hits, and it’s especially characteristic of the Beasties’ early songs, right? It’s a different groove from double bass drumming, and while it’s rare in vocal-driven music, you could say it became a basic foundation for the R&B that emerged in the 2000s.
Hold It Now, Hit ItBeastie Boys
This track also uses a big-name sample, and I’m not really sure how the royalty issues were handled back then.
Still, the thrill of “Oh, I know this sample!” was part of what made it fun to listen to.
Being a song from their first album, it feels young and full of energy.
Shake Your RumpBeastie Boys
In the music video for this track, it’s shot with a fisheye lens, which is probably what stands out most for many viewers.
The funky guitar is cool too, but it’s the scratching that really gets you.
I bet some people impulsively bought a turntable after hearing this song.