RAG Musicartist
Lovely Western music

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 (21–30)

Triple TroubleBeastie Boys

Speaking of their music videos, I always picture fisheye lenses and overalls, and this song is exactly that vibe! The songs they “scheme” rather than just make are always packed with fresh ideas.

As the title suggests, they’re troublemakers—in the best possible way!

Report a problem

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.

Report a problem

Three MC’s and One DJBeastie Boys

Beastie Boys – Three MC’s and One DJ
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.

Report a problem

Hold It Now, Hit ItBeastie Boys

Beastie Boys – Hold It Now, Hit It (Official Music Video)
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.

Report a problem

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.

Report a problem
Read morechevron_right
Electric WormBeastie Boys