Beastie Boys

Back in May 1985, when the Beastie Boys tore up the stage at the St. Paul Civic Center, they were right in the thick of their evolution from punk-influenced beginnings to hip-hop legends. This live recording showcases them when their debut album, *Licensed to Ill*, was still making waves, having just been released the previous fall. The energetic vibes of “Rock Hard” echo the raw excitement of a band riding a crazy wave of newfound fame, fueled by their hit “Fight For Your Right.” Fun fact: this was also during a time when the Beastie Boys were notoriously known for their raucous stage antics—a trait that would redefine live performances in the rap genre. This particular gig captures not just their talent, but the electrifying chaos of the 80s music scene, hinting at the dynamic mix of influences that would shape their groundbreaking future. Can you feel the live energy just watching? It's infectious!

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