Today’s video of the day is Beastie Boys – "Three MC’s and One DJ" released in 1988.
Beastie Boys released the video for “Three MC’s and One DJ” in 1998. The song appears on their fifth album, Hello Nasty. It marked the debut of Mix Master Mike, who replaced DJ Hurricane. His addition brought a fresh sound and sharp scratching skills to the group. The Beastie Boys started in New York City in 1981. Originally a hardcore punk band, they later shifted to hip-hop. Their 1986 debut, Licensed to Ill, became a huge success. They followed with Paul’s Boutique, Check Your Head, and Ill Communication, each pushing musical boundaries.
Hello Nasty continued that trend. It blended rap, funk, and electronic sounds. “Three MC’s and One DJ” highlighted the group’s return to raw beats and live turntablism. It also showed the new chemistry between the MCs—Mike D, Ad-Rock, and MCA—and Mix Master Mike. The video captures this energy. It opens in the basement of 262 Mott Street in Manhattan. The three MCs stand still, waiting for their DJ. Mix Master Mike arrives in a Ghostbuster costume, rings the bell, but no one answers. He sneaks in and joins them at the decks. Once he starts scratching, the group springs into action. After performing, they freeze again, and Mike leaves. The setting is important—it’s the same basement where Hello Nasty was recorded. This video stands out from their earlier ones. It feels stripped down, focused more on performance than concept. In contrast, earlier videos like “Sabotage” and “So What’cha Want” had heavy visual flair. Here, they let the music and chemistry speak.
Released as a double A-side with “Remote Control,” the single reached number 21 in the UK. “Remote Control” later appeared in an ESPN X Games commercial, showing the group’s wide cultural reach. “Three MC’s and One DJ” reflects the Beastie Boys’ evolution. It connects their early days of pure hip-hop with a mature, self-aware style. At the same time, it celebrates collaboration and reinvention. This video and song mark a turning point that influenced their later albums, including To the 5 Boroughs and Hot Sauce Committee Part Two.
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