Adam Yauch rip

Tributes are pouring in after the sad death of Beastie Boys' rapper Adam Yauch.
A truly seminal figure in hip hop, Adam Yauch’s work with the Beastie Boys alone would grant him hero status. However for fans it was the way in which he conducted himself – a vegan Buddhist who promoted the Free Tibet movement – which really broke the mould.

Sadly passing away yesterday after a battle with cancer, Adam Yauch left behind a lifetime of music and activism, as well as some provocative film work. Tributes are pouring in for the rapper, with Beastie Boys posting a message on their official website.

“It is with great sadness that we confirm that musician, rapper, activist and director Adam "MCA" Yauch, founding member of Beastie Boys and also of the Milarepa Foundation that produced the Tibetan Freedom Concert benefits, and film production and distribution company Oscilloscope Laboratories, passed away in his native New York City this morning after a near-three-year battle with unsecured loans cancer. He was 47 years old.”
News initially broke via Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons, who wrote on his website: “Adam was incredibly sweet and the most sensitive artist, who I loved dearly. I was always inspired by his work. He will be missed by all of us.”

Hitting Twitter, the news of Adam Yauch’ passing caused a tremendous outpouring of emotion. Here is a brief selection:
Reverend Run – “R I P Adam... I'm devastated. Praying for Adam Yauch's family from the legendary Beastie Boys. You'll be missed!”

Snoop Dogg - “RIP MCA U are a Legend and a pioneer. #BeastieBoys4life
Common – “God Bless the soul of Adam Yauch aka MCA of the Beastie Boys. RIP”
Def Jam - “Man…that one hurts. Our prayers go out to Adam Yauch and his family. #MCA #BEASTIEBOYS Rest Well.”

Finally, Coldplay paid their respects onstage at the Hollywood bad credit loans Bowl last night. Chris Martin performed a piano led version of ‘Fight For Your Right’, dedicating the song to Adam Yauch. Watch the performance below.