The Recording Academy Statement On Adam Yauch

LOS ANGELES (Top40 Charts/ Recording Academy) As a co-founding member of the three-time GRAMMY-winning Beastie Boys, Adam Yauch was part of one of the most groundbreaking trios in hip-hop. The group's music crossed genres and color lines, and helped bring rap to a wider audience.
A rapper, musician and director, Yauch was an immense talent and creative visionary, and an instrumental force in the group's career for more than three decades.
In addition to his music and artistry, he was a philanthropist who devoted much of his energy to his passionate support for freedom of expression.
The music world has lost a true trailblazer, and our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and fans throughout the world.

Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy