Michael Diamond, also known as Mike D, is an American musician, rapper, songwriter, and drummer. He is best known as a founding member of the pioneering hip hop group the Beastie Boys, formed in the early 1980s. With the Beastie Boys, Mike D achieved fame for his work on influential albums such as "Licensed to Ill," "Paul's Boutique," and "Check Your Head." The group's unique blend of hip hop, rock, and punk influenced generations of artists to come. Aside from his career with the Beastie Boys, Michael Diamond has also been involved in various other music and cultural projects, including producing records for other artists and engaging in social and political activism. After the Beastie Boys disbanded following the death of member Adam Yauch (MCA) in 2012, Diamond continued to be involved in the music industry and other creative endeavors.