Beastie Boys' Adam Yauch Dead Aged 47

4 May 2012, 19:34 | Updated: 4 December 2017, 11:10

Tributes pour in following the loss of one third of the iconic 'No Sleep Till Brooklyn' hip-hop collective.

Beastie Boys star Adam Yauch has died at the age of 47.

The 'No Sleep Till Brooklyn' star was diagnosed with cancer in 2009, although it is not known if the disease was the cause of his death.

Adam, who performed under the name MCA, said last year that contrary to reports he had not been given the all clear after undergoing treatment for cancer in a salivary gland in his neck.

Formed in 1981 alongside Mike D and Ad Roc, the Beastie Boys are widely regarded as one of the most respected rap and hip-hop collectives in the history of music.

They have sold more than 40 million albums worldwide since the release of their critically acclaimed debut album 'Licensed To Ill' in 1986. The band's most famous songs include 'Fight For Your Right To Party' and 'Make Some Noise'.

Beastie Boys - 'Fight For Your Right':

In January 2011, Yauch was forced to clarify reports that he had been given the all-clear from cancer.

He said: "While I'm grateful for all the positive energy people are sending my way, reports of my being totally cancer free are exaggerated.

"I'm continuing treatment, staying optimistic and hoping to be cancer free in the near future."

Beastie Boys - 'No Sleep Till Brooklyn':

Tributes have been paid to Adam from across the music industry on Twitter.

Dance duo The Chemical Brothers wrote: "RIP Adam Yauch. thanks for the amazing music,continual inspiration."

Def Jam Records said: "Man...that one hurts. Our prayers go out to Adam Yauch and his family.#MCA #BEASTIEBOYS Rest Well."

Beastie Boys released eight studio albums as a three-piece. The last, 'Hot Sauce Committee Part Two', was released in 2011 and included a collaboration with Santigold.