The music world has lost another pioneer.
While his name may not ring as loudly or with the same gravity as those others we've lost this year-- Phife Dawg, David Bowie, Prince --it's nonetheless deeply saddening to hear of the passing of yet another artist who made an impactful contribution to New York City and culture at large.
John Berry, an original member of the Beastie Boys died on Thursday in Danvers, Massachusetts.
Although Berry was only a member of the iconic New York City rap group for a short time, he is credited with naming the group.
The original group, that was formed in 1981, featured four members and were more of a punk hardcore then a pioneering rap group back in those days.
A year later, Berry left to form other bands and a year after so did drummer, Kate Schellenbach. Soon after, the trio of Ad-Rock, Mike D and MCA came to be.
Berry went on to be a part of many bands including, Big Fat Love, Highway Stars and Even Worse.
[anad]
When the Beastie Boys were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, they did not forget to mention Berry and spoke highly of him as well, and you can check out that speech below.
The name he bestowed the group was just a small part but it led to a bond that lasted a lifetime. RIP John Berry.
Check out This Insane Blues-Rock Duo Gettin' Ready to Riot.