Books Written by Beastie Boys

October 19, 2025

Books Written by Rappers the Beastie Boys

The Beastie Boys; Michael “Mike D” Diamond, Adam “Ad-Rock” Horovitz, and the late Adam “MCA” Yauch, aren’t just pioneers of Rap/Hip-Hop and punk fusion; they’re cultural icons whose creative energy has transcended music. Known for their humor, authenticity, and innovation, the group also made their mark in literature. Published six years after the death of band member Adam "MCA" Yauch, it was written by surviving members Michael "Mike D" Diamond and Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz. Through their books, the Beastie Boys offer fans a deeper, more personal look at their journey from rowdy New York teens to one of the most influential hip-hop groups of all time. How many books has the Beastie Boys written? 1. (so far at the time of this post). Here’s a look at the books written by the Beastie Boys.

1. Beastie Boys Book (2018)

Written by Adam “Ad-Rock” Horovitz and Michael “Mike D” Diamond, Beastie Boys Book is an expansive and wildly entertaining memoir that tells the full story of the group’s evolution. Rather than a traditional autobiography, the book is a collage of memories, essays, photos, illustrations, playlists, and tributes—each capturing the group’s humor and creativity. It’s a heartfelt celebration of their friendship and the late Adam “MCA” Yauch, whose spirit guides the book from start to finish.

What’s Inside the Beastie Boys Book:

• Candid stories from the Beastie Boys’ early days in NYC

• Behind-the-scenes looks at the making of classic albums like Paul’s Boutique, Check Your Head, and Ill Communication

• Personal reflections on Adam Yauch’s vision and influence

• Guest essays from friends like Spike Jonze and Amy Poehler

• Vintage photos, artwork, and tour memories that bring their story to life

With Beastie Boys Book, the group proved that their storytelling didn’t end with their lyrics. The book captures the humor, chaos, and heart that defined the band for decades, serving as both a tribute to MCA and a testament to their creative bond. It’s part oral history, part scrapbook, and entirely Beastie Boys, unfiltered and unforgettable.

Their foray into publishing showed that their artistry extended far beyond the stage, preserving their story for fans old and new. Just as they redefined hip-hop, the Beastie Boys redefined what a music memoir could be: funny, emotional, and endlessly inventive.

Want to read more Hip-Hop books like any of these titles? Check our full collection at HipHopBooks.com for the greatest books in Rap/Hip-Hop.

A book every Rap/Hip-Hop fan should have in their library is the Rap Dictionary.

You can read our ultimate list of rappers who have written books/books written by rappers here.

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