A new hardcover book, Beastie Boys: Licensed to Ill – 40 Years, is being published to mark four decades since the release of the Beastie Boys' groundbreaking 1986 debut album. Written by author Ben Merlis and part of The Great Albums book series, the retrospective combines fresh interviews with archival photography to trace how the group evolved from a hardcore punk act into hip-hop's first chart-topping stars, a story Merlis says he was uniquely placed to tell given his interest in both scenes.

The 176-page book, packaged in a slipcase with a foreword by Prince Paul, features more than 200 images, a track-by-track breakdown of the album, and new conversations with producers, collaborators and critics. It also examines the turbulent relationship between the band and producer Rick Rubin and manager Russell Simmons. Licensed to Ill was the first rap album to top the Billboard 200 and remains one of the fastest-selling debuts ever; the book is due for release on 13 October and is available for pre-order.