Mike D facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mike D
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Diamond performing in 2007
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| Birth name | Michael Louis Diamond |
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| Born | November 20, 1965 New York City, U.S. |
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| Years active | 1979–present |
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Michael Louis Diamond (born November 20, 1965), known as Mike D, is an American rapper, musician, and music producer. He is a founding member of the famous hip hop group Beastie Boys.
Contents
Early Life and Art
Michael Diamond was born in New York City. His dad, Harold Diamond, was an art dealer. His mom, Hester Diamond, was an interior designer and art collector. He grew up surrounded by amazing artwork. This included pieces by famous artists like Willem de Kooning and Mark Rothko. He went to arts-focused schools, Saint Ann's School and Walden School.
Mike D's Music Journey
Starting with The Young Aborigines
In 1979, Mike D helped start a band called The Young Aborigines. In 1981, Adam Yauch, also known as MCA, joined the band as their bass player. A friend suggested they change their name to the Beastie Boys.
The Beastie Boys and Hip Hop
By 1983, Adam Horovitz (Ad-Rock) joined the group. Their music style started to change from punk to hip hop.
In 1986, the Beastie Boys released their first album, Licensed to Ill. It was a huge success! The album sold millions of copies. One of its most famous songs was "(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party!)". The group released many more albums over the years. Several of these albums also sold millions of copies.
Beyond the Beastie Boys
In 1992, Mike D started the Beastie Boys' own record label, Grand Royal Records. This label is no longer active. Mike D also has an interest in interior design. He even designed special wallpaper with Brooklyn themes. This wallpaper was used in a nightclub renovation in New York City in 2013.
After Adam Yauch passed away in 2012, Mike D continued to make music. In 2013, he released a remix called "Humberto Vs the New Reactionaries". He also worked with Adam Horovitz on a remix for Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band. In 2014, Mike D worked as a producer for the rock band Portugal. The Man. He also produced the album Take Control for the English punk duo Soft Play (formerly Slaves), which came out in 2016.
Mike D also hosts a podcast called The Echo Chamber on Apple Music.
Mike D's Family Life
In 1993, Mike D married Tamra Davis, who directs films, TV shows, and music videos. They have two children, Davis Diamond and Skyler Diamond. Their children formed a music group called Very Nice Person. Mike D and Tamra Davis have since separated.
He grew up in New York City and later lived in Brooklyn and Tribeca. As of 2016, he was living in Malibu, California.
Beastie Boys Albums
- Licensed to Ill (1986)
- Paul's Boutique (1989)
- Check Your Head (1992)
- Ill Communication (1994)
- Hello Nasty (1998)
- To the 5 Boroughs (2004)
- The Mix-Up (2007)
- Hot Sauce Committee Part Two (2011)
See also
In Spanish: Michael Diamond para niños
