Mike D adds Mutations and Fat Dog to 2026 solo tour
The legendary world of the Beastie Boys is finding a new, vibrant rhythm as one of its key members, Mike D, steps boldly into a compelling solo chapter.
Following the trio’s final album, Hot Sauce Committee Part Two in 2011, Mike D has been exploring his own sound, sharing his debut solo single Switch Up in May. This personal musical journey culminated in the release of his debut album, Thank You, which fans can pre-order now.
The creative shift is deeply personal. Speaking about the solo work, Mike D reflected on the influences that shaped his music, noting how being a father played an instrumental role in his artistic development. He discussed how his sons provided valuable perspective and frankness regarding his vocals, which helped him find a new voice.
Looking back at his career, he acknowledged the profound impact of personal loss—the death of Beastie Boys bandmate Adam “MCA” Yauch in 2012. Mike D shared that while music was always central to him, this period prompted him to refocus and discover new ways to feel and express himself.
When describing the sound of his solo work, he admitted it retains a certain musical immaturity but has grown lyrically more mature, reflecting an ongoing process of learning how to feel all over again.
This journey into solo music has also involved live performances. Mike D has recently been sharing stages alongside his sons, Davis and Skyler Diamond, members of the indie-dance band Very Nice Person, leading to a run in June that featured appearances at unusually intimate venues.
Now, this newfound solo energy is fueling an extended tour into the autumn. The adventure kicks off with a headline slot at Brighton’s Mutations Festival on October 24, where he will share the stage with Fat Dog. From there, the journey continues with dates in Glasgow, Manchester, and London, before heading out on a broader European run.
The festival itself promises an electrifying experience. At Mutations, Fat Dog will headline the opening night on Friday October 23, setting the stage for Mike D’s performance the following evening at Chalk. This appearance marks a significant moment, as it is the first live outing by a Beastie Boys member in Brighton since the group shared a gig with Run-DMC back in May 1987.
Beyond the festival, Mike D continues to release material from his album, including several singles from Thank You, such as What We Got, True Colors, and Crypto, keeping the momentum going for his evolving musical story.