Licensed to Ill — 1986

A rowdy, rock-sampling debut that made rap a pop force. Fun and brash. A cultural landmark. Arrives at the top of the Beastie Boys page for good reason.

On vinyl: The original pressing is often easy to find second-hand in good condition.

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More from Beastie Boys — where to go next

If you have Licensed to Ill, these are the Beastie Boys records worth reaching for next.

1. 1
   Paul's Boutique1989 · Hip-Hop
   Start here
2. 2
   Licensed to Ill1986 · you're viewing this one
   Classic
3. 3
   Check Your Head1992 · Hip-Hop
   Classic
4. 4
   Ill Communication1994 · Hip-Hop
   Classic

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