Adam Yauch of the pioneering hip-hop group Beastie Boys has died today at the premature age of 47. You're tuned in to ClevverMusic. Adam Yauch, also known as MCA, was diagnosed with cancer in 2009 after discovering a tumor in his salivary gland. The rapper had been in treatment ever since.

Adam co-founded the Beastie Boys with Mike 'Mike D' Diamond and Adam 'Ad-Rock' Horowitz in 1979. The band debuted as a punk group, but transitioned into hip hop later on. They found fame with their first album, Licensed to Ill, in 1986.

Most recently, the band released an album titled, 'Hot Sauce Committee, Pt. 2' in 2011, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In addition to his musical career, Adam was heavily involved in the movement to free Tibet, and in 2002 founded the film production company Oscilloscope Laboratories.

We send our condolences to Adam's friends, family, and fans. He will surely be missed. Let us know down in the comments what you'll miss most about this hip hop originator. Be sure to subscribe to ClevverMusic for more breaking news. See you soon..