Today is a sad day in the music world.

Founding member of the Beastie Boys Adam Yauch, often known by his stage name MCA, has died today at the age of 47.

The Beastie Boys played their first gig on Yauch's 17th birthday, back when they were a hardcore punk band. 5 years later, after morphing into a hip hop or rap-rock band, they reeleased their first album, License To Ill, and entered the public spotlight.

In addition to his work with Beastie Boys, Yauch directed a number of the band's music videos under the pseudonym Nathaniel Hörnblowér, and also directed a few movies and short films. He also built a recording studio in 2002 in New York City called Oscilloscope Laboratories, where he produced the comeback album from legendary hardcore punk band Bad Brains, Build A Nation.

MCA was diagnosed with cancer in 2009, and underwent treatment which delayed the Beastie Boys' album release and tour.

By 2010, the Beastie Boys had sold 40 million records worldwide, and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this year (though largely overshadowed by everything that went down with Guns 'N' Roses). MCA was unable to attend due to his health, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers dedicated their live performance at the ceremony to Yauch.

It's Friday, so don't forget to Fight For Your Right (To Party) this weekend.

Rest in Peace, MCA.