In April 1987, the Beastie Boys performed at the Onondaga County War Memorial during their Licensed to Ill Tour with Public Enemy. Prior to the show, according to the Spokane Chronicle, Onondaga County officials and the director of the War Memorial tried to work with the Beastie Boys and their promoter to tone down their show, one that often included some “lewd acts.” A signed agreement was sent to the group, but was denied by their management. The show went on as planned, including the “scantily-clad dancing girls” on stage in front of 2,584 people.
Learn more from this Syracuse.com article by Jonathon Croyle.
Here’s the Beastie Boys album Licensed to Ill…