Hip-hop legend Mike D of the Beastie Boys has officially expanded his upcoming solo tour, confirming that his first United Kingdom performance will take place at an intimate venue in North Shields. The announcement comes alongside the release of his latest solo track, “What We Got,” a high-energy composition that marks a distinct return to the aggressive, percussive sound synonymous with his long-standing career.
The addition of the North East England date at the Kings Street Social Club on June 3 serves as the opening night for his highly anticipated run of solo shows. The tour, which spans multiple European nations including Ireland, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Belgium, and France, represents a significant moment for fans who have not seen the artist perform in a solo capacity on this scale since the passing of his longtime bandmate, Adam “MCA” Yauch, in 2012.
A New Chapter for a Hip-Hop Veteran
The momentum for this project has been building rapidly throughout the spring. Earlier this month, Mike D surprised his audience with the debut solo single “Switch Up.” This release marked the first instance of new music from any member of the Beastie Boys since the group’s 2011 studio album, Hot Sauce Committee Part Two. The arrival of “What We Got” continues this momentum, featuring distorted guitar riffs and a clipped, rhythmic vocal delivery that highlights the artist’s enduring influence on the genre.
For those following his recent activities, the transition back to the stage began in April. During an appearance with his sons, David and Skyler—who perform as the indie-dance duo Very Nice Person—the trio surprised attendees by performing classic Beastie Boys staples, including “So What’cha Want” and “Looking Down The Barrel Of A Gun.” This collaborative spirit carried over into a brief run of headline shows in the United States earlier this month, where new material was first introduced to live audiences.
Community Connections and Touring Details
The intimacy of these upcoming shows echoes the spirit of his recent U.S. Dates. Reports from local coverage in Ojai, California, where the artist held a surprise performance, highlighted how these shows are often organized through personal connections and a genuine affinity for the local communities he visits. Owners of independent venues have noted that these collaborations are often arranged quickly, driven by the artist’s desire to perform in settings that feel personal and authentic rather than strictly commercial.
Following the opening night in North Shields, the tour will move to London for two consecutive dates at 26 Leake St on June 5 and June 6. These performances provide a rare opportunity for European fans to experience the evolution of his sound in an up-close environment. The artist has also been active in revisiting his legacy, as evidenced by the deluxe reissue of the 2004 Beastie Boys album To The Five Boroughs, which was released in April.
Tour Schedule Overview
- June 3: Kings Street Social Club, North Shields, UK
- June 5: 26 Leake St, London, UK
- June 6: 26 Leake St, London, UK
- Late June: Additional dates scheduled across Germany, Portugal, Ireland, Spain, Belgium, and France.
What Comes Next
As the June tour dates approach, fans are encouraged to monitor official ticketing platforms for the latest updates on venue capacities and entry requirements. While the artist has not yet confirmed plans for a full-length solo studio album, the rapid-fire release of “Switch Up” and “What We Got” suggests a prolific period of creative output.
The music industry continues to watch these developments closely, as the return of a founding Beastie Boys member to the touring circuit remains a major highlight of the 2026 concert calendar. Whether these performances serve as a precursor to a larger project or remain focused on the immediacy of live interaction, the excitement surrounding the tour reflects the lasting cultural footprint of the group. We invite our readers to share their thoughts on the new tracks and their experiences if they are attending the upcoming June shows in the comments section below.