The Beastie Boys were the first successful white rap group and one of the few acts from the early days of hip-hop that still enjoyed major success their whole career. Their rock and punk-influenced rap has had a significant impact on artists both in and outside the hip-hop scene. And they were the first rap group to gain a substantial following with alternative rock fans.
The Beastie Boys came together in 1979 as a punk band called The Young Aborigines. In 1981 MCA joined the group and from the suggestion of their guitarist John Berry, they changed their name to Beastie Boys. Their line up then consisted of Adam Yauch (aka MCA) on bass, drummer Kate Schellenbach (later of Luscious Jackson), guitarist John Berry (of Big Fat Love), and Mike Diamond (aka Mike D) on the mic. Beastie Boys' debut EP, the Pollywog Stew vinyl 7" was released in 1982.
The band's first foray into hip hop, the Cooky Puss 12", followed in 1983, with The Young and the Useless guitarist Adam Horovitz (aka Adrock) replacing John Berry. "Cooky Puss" would be the first B Boys record to receive play at NYC clubs like Danceteria as the band played its first shows outside the city.
The Mike D/MCA/Adrock Beastie Boys lineup debuted in 1984 with the "Rock Hard"/"Beastie Groove" 12." Produced by Rick Rubin, who went on to produce albums for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Johnny Cash and Audioslave. The "She's On It"/ "Slow And Low" 12" followed in 1985 and Beastie Boys went on Madonna's "Virgin Tour." as her opening act.
Licensed to Ill dropped in fall 1986 and became the first Beastie Boys album--and the first Rap album ever--to go #1. Fueled by Fight for Your Right and No Sleep Till Brooklyn it remained at #1 for seven weeks and simultaneously reached #2 on the urban chart, becoming the fastest selling debut to date for Columbia and the first hip hop record to break 5 million.
In 1989 Beastie Boys released their second album Paul’s Boutique produced by Beastie Boys and the Dust Brothers. Paul's Boutique laid down the blueprint for a generation of emergent genres and went over the collective head of a nation. The likes of "Shake Your Rump," "Lookin' Down The Barrel Of A Gun," "Car Thief," Shadrach," and the hip hop "suite" "B-Boy Bouillabaisse" contained lyrical and musical references too plentiful and diverse for the average mind to compute in one sitting.
Check Your Head, released in 1992, heralded the return of live instrumentation into the B Boys mix. The album was produced by the band and Mario Caldato Jr. (who first worked with B Boys as engineer on Paul's Boutique), Check Your Head would yield a watershed of new B Boys staples, including So Whatcha' Want, Pass The Mic, "Gratitude" and "Jimmy James." With the assistance of Keyboard Money Mark, Eric Bobo and assorted percussionists, Beastie Boys returned to the touring circuit and Check Your Head hit double platinum.
In the summer of 1994, Ill Communication, also produced by the band and Mario Caldato Jr., entered the charts #1. The album featured such hits Sure Shot and Sabotage. Ill Communication was supported by Beastie Boys' first arena headline tour since the '80s. Following the tour's conclusion, Beastie Boys recorded and released Aglio e Olio consisting of eight songs clocking in at 11 minutes, the EP recalls the vintage hardcore punk of the band's infancy.
On July 14 1998, their fifth album titled Hello Nasty was released. Spurred by the monster success of the "Intergalactic" single and video, the record clocked first week sales of nearly 700,000 in the U.S. and went straight in at #1 in England, Germany, Australia, Holland, New Zealand and Sweden. Early in the tour, Beastie Boys made live tracks available for free download to fans unable to attend the shows-and were blindsided by their label pulling the tracks down.
Having closed 1998 by accepting the Video Vanguard lifetime achievement honor at the MTV Video Music Awards, Beastie Boys rang in 1999 with Artist, Band and/or Record of the Year accolades from the likes of Rolling Stone, SPIN, The New Yorker and Playboy, among others. A month later, at the 41st Annual Grammy Awards, the now quadruple-platinum Hello Nasty took Best Alternative Music Performance, while "Intergalactic," nailed Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group--the first time an artist has ever won in both Rap and Alternative categories.1999 would also see "Intergalactic" take Best Hip Hop Video honors at the 1999 MTV Video Music Awards.
Beastie Boys' sixth studio album, To The 5 Boroughs, released in summer 2004, was the band's third consecutive #1 debut-and Rolling Stone magazine's only 5-star review of the year. To The 5 Boroughs was supported by world tour - traveling pageant - supported by Talib Kweli and Bob Moore's Amazing Mongrels (yes, a live dog show, hence the pageant appellation).
2006 saw the release of the film, Awesome, I Fuckin' Shot That!, a concert film made up of footage filmed by audience members, which debuted at Sundance in early 2006 and was released theatrically the same year.
In 2007 Beastie Boys released The Mix-Up, first ever full length offering of all-new, all-original instrumental recordings.
On February 3rd, 2009, they digitally remastered and released Paul's Boutique on their website.
The band's next record, "Hot Sauce Committee Part 2" was released in the first quarter of 2011. It features the same tracklisting as the previously announced "Hot Sauce Committee Part 1", which was delayed indefinitely after Yauch was diagnosed with a tumor on his parotid gland (which was successfully removed).
Bassist and vocalist Adam Yauch died on May 4, 2012 of cancer.
In June 2014, Mike D stated that the Beastie Boys would not continue their careers as a group, as a promise to Adam Yauch. "We have not been able to tour since MCA, Adam Yauch, died," Diamond said. "We can't make new music."
Triple Trouble
Beastie Boys Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
When you hear the saying
You'll be right as rain
If you (if you)
Want to know (want to know)
The real deal about the three
Well, let me tell you, we're triple trouble ya'll
Cause I'm a specializer, rhyme reviser
Ain't selling out to advertisers
What you get is what you see
And you won't see me out there advertising
See I like to party not drink Bacardi
'Cause I'm not looking to throw up on nobody
Known for my spiel a wheelie one-wheel
This is like having a delicious meal
And well, moving the crowd, well that's a must
I got some words that apply to us and that's
Mesmerizing, tantalizing captivating, we're devastating
So if you (if you)
Want to know (want to know)
The real deal about the three
Well, let us tell you, we're triple trouble ya'll
We got to bring you up to speed, now check it out
Here's one for the bleachers and the upper tier
Versatile all-temp-a-cheer
If you want a drink call Mr. Belvedere
Run this rap game like a brigadier
I got kicks on the one, seven and eleven
Snares on the five and thirteen
Rhymes on time and that's the given
We're hot on the disco scene check-it, check-it
Slow down with I, me, got to stop stingin'
Source of the problem at the origin
You've got lyrics that have got me cringin'
You're like a fish-wife, quit your damn whingin'
If you (if you)
Want to know (want to know)
The real deal about the three
Well, let me tell you, we're triple trouble ya'll
We're gonna bring you up to speed, so check it out
Bam, super-nature god damn
Cerrone on the microphone, I am
Adrock a.k.a sharp cheddar
My rhymes are better
What the Helen of Troy is that?
Did I hear you say my rhymes is wack?
I'm beautiful you can't touch me
If you pick a rose, well you might just bleed
We're originators you can't feign
Ignorance or pass the blame
'Nuff rhymes coming out the brain
'Nuff beats to drive you insane
'Nuff moves to make your neck crane
'Nuff skill to make the rhymes ingrain
'Nuff heat to leave you in flames
'Nuff style that you can't defame
You see I walk like Jabba the Hutt
The style's so new y'all be like what?
Turn the party out like a bon vivant
With the skill at will that I know you want
On a hot day with the iced latte
Devious like Wylie Coyote
Hot to trot or maybe not-e
'Cause little did they know there was a baby in her body
We're mesmerizing, tantalizing, captivating, devastating
If you (if you)
Want to know (want to know)
The real deal about the three
Well, let me tell you, we're triple trouble ya'll
We're gonna bring you up to speed, check it out
The lyrics of Beastie Boys's song, Triple Trouble, are reflective of the band's bold, straightforward, and in-your-face style of rap, as the three members take turns to assert their lyrical prowess, individuality, and uniqueness. The song starts with a declaration of intent as the trio promises to bring listeners up to speed while kicking lyrics right to their brains. They also affirm that they're not selling out to advertisers or promoting anything they don't stand for. They're mesmerizing, tantalizing, captivating, and devastating, qualities that make them originators who can't feign ignorance or pass the blame.
The song's verses are littered with references to various cultural elements, including popular drinks like Bacardi and Mr. Belvedere, as well as popular phrases like 'right as rain' and 'hot to trot.' The Beastie Boys also make multiple cultural and pop-culture references in the song that highlight their diverse interests and influences. The trio's rhyme schemes and impeccable timing keep the listener hooked and entertained throughout the song.
Overall, Beastie Boys's Triple Trouble is a celebration of the group's unique style, individuality, and prowess, set to an upbeat and funky rhythm that is sure to get one dancing.
Line by Line Meaning
Kicking lyrics right to your brain
Our lyrics are powerful and impactful, and they will stick with you.
When you hear the saying
Our music and rhymes will make a lasting impression on you.
You'll be right as rain
You will feel rejuvenated and renewed after listening to our music.
If you (if you)
Listen up closely and pay attention, because we've got something important to say.
Want to know (want to know)
If you're curious and interested in learning more, then keep on listening.
The real deal about the three
We're going to give you the inside scoop on the three of us and our music.
Well, let me tell you, we're triple trouble ya'll
We're a force to be reckoned with, and our music is all about causing a stir and making an impact.
We're gonna bring you up to speed, check it out
We're going to bring you up to date and keep you informed, so keep on listening.
Cause I'm a specializer, rhyme reviser
I'm an expert in creating rhymes, and I'm always refining and perfecting my craft.
Ain't selling out to advertisers
I'm not compromising my music or my art for commercial gain.
What you get is what you see
I'm authentic and genuine in my music and in my life.
And you won't see me out there advertising
I'm not promoting products or brands in my music or in my image.
See I like to party not drink Bacardi
I enjoy having fun and being social, but I'm not a heavy drinker.
'Cause I'm not looking to throw up on nobody
I don't want to ruin anyone's good time by getting sick.
Known for my spiel a wheelie one-wheel
I'm recognized for my unique and impressive skills, like doing wheelies on a single-wheel bicycle.
This is like having a delicious meal
Listening to our music is like enjoying a satisfying and wonderful meal.
And well, moving the crowd, well that's a must
We strive to engage and exhilarate our audience and create a lively atmosphere.
I got some words that apply to us and that's
We have some words and phrases that perfectly describe who we are and what we're all about.
Mesmerizing, tantalizing captivating, we're devastating
Our music is hypnotic, intriguing, and overwhelmingly powerful.
Here's one for the bleachers and the upper tier
This next part of the song is dedicated to our fans in the cheap seats and the high-end VIP section.
Versatile all-temp-a-cheer
Our music is diverse, adaptable, and always uplifting.
If you want a drink call Mr. Belvedere
We're not too proud to ask for help or assistance, and sometimes you just need to let loose and have a drink.
Run this rap game like a brigadier
We're in charge of the rap industry, and we're leading the way with our innovative and groundbreaking music.
I got kicks on the one, seven and eleven
I have impeccable timing and rhythm, and I know exactly how to get the crowd moving.
Snares on the five and thirteen
I use a variety of percussion beats and rhythms to create a dynamic and engaging sound.
Rhymes on time and that's the given
My rhymes are always on point and perfectly timed.
We're hot on the disco scene check-it, check-it
We're cool, hip, and always on-trend with the latest music and dance scenes.
Slow down with I, me, got to stop stingin'
We need to think less about ourselves and more about others, and stop being selfish and self-centered.
Source of the problem at the origin
We need to address the root cause of our issues, rather than just treating the symptoms.
You've got lyrics that have got me cringin'
Your lyrics make me feel awkward and uncomfortable.
You're like a fish-wife, quit your damn whingin'
You're being annoying and complaining too much, so please stop.
Bam, super-nature god damn
Our music is supernatural and amazing, and it will blow your mind.
Cerrone on the microphone, I am
I'm like the legendary music producer Cerrone, creating groundbreaking and timeless music.
Adrock a.k.a sharp cheddar
My rap name is Adrock, and I'm known for my clever and witty rhymes.
My rhymes are better
My rhymes are superior to those of other rappers.
What the Helen of Troy is that?
What the heck is going on here?
Did I hear you say my rhymes is wack?
Did I just hear you say that my rhymes aren't any good?
I'm beautiful you can't touch me
My music and my persona are flawless and untouchable.
If you pick a rose, well you might just bleed
If you try to criticize me or my music, you're going to regret it.
We're originators you can't feign
We're the original and authentic creators of this music genre, and no one else can replicate it.
Ignorance or pass the blame
Don't be ignorant or try to avoid responsibility for your actions.
'Nuff rhymes coming out the brain
We have plenty of rhymes and creative ideas up our sleeves.
'Nuff beats to drive you insane
Our music has plenty of pulsing beats that will get you excited and energized.
'Nuff moves to make your neck crane
Our music is infectious and will make you want to dance and move.
'Nuff skill to make the rhymes ingrain
Our rhymes are so good that they will stick with you long after the song is over.
'Nuff heat to leave you in flames
Our music is hot and intense, and you won't be able to resist it.
'Nuff style that you can't defame
Our unique style and sound is impossible to criticize or defame.
You see I walk like Jabba the Hutt
I have a distinct and memorable walk, like the Star Wars character Jabba the Hutt.
The style's so new y'all be like what?
Our music is so fresh and innovative that it might take some getting used to.
Turn the party out like a bon vivant
We know how to get the party started and keep it going like true party animals.
With the skill at will that I know you want
We have the talent and skill to make the music that you've been craving.
On a hot day with the iced latte
In the midst of difficult times or challenging situations, it's important to find joy in the little things.
Devious like Wylie Coyote
We're clever and shrewd, like the classic cartoon character Wylie Coyote.
Hot to trot or maybe not-e
We're ready and eager to take on anything that comes our way, but sometimes we need to take a break.
'Cause little did they know there was a baby in her body
People often underestimate us or our abilities, but we have a hidden strength that they don't see.
We're mesmerizing, tantalizing, captivating, devastating
Our music is incredibly powerful and captivating, and it will have a profound impact on your life.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: BERNARD EDWARDS, NILE RODGERS, MICHAEL DIAMOND, ADAM YAUCH, ADAM HOROWITZ
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@LukesEnglishPodcast
03:30 Did I just see Sasquatch giving Mike a bath?
@jcc2917
Beastie Boys have hands down the best, most entertaining music videos ever made
@SmokeMyBlunt
True. I do think Eminem made some fun videos aswell,especially together with D12.
@dataharvestingbot
It never ceases to amaze me, how much they could send themselves up. Zero ego. Pure love for these guys.
@egobuilders415
Damm right 😎👊
@mwara2444
Wish there were more bootleg videos and live concerts to see, but it all turned right when smartphones with decent cameras hit the market, when MCA you know. RIP MCA
@michaeloftaoism
Yes!
@seanoreilly1832
Only an American could think this is zero ego hahaha ....this song is literally about themselves
@daywatch666
@Sean O'Reilly very much not an American.
@meechipeachi
Year 2023 now. This video is actually making my heart ache today . I miss those goofy bastards. Such excellent chemistry they had together . I adore how silly they could be and still be productive! My kinda people.