40 years after a hit single, will the Beastie Boys come to Derby?
Right to Party is set to race in the Kentucky Derby exactly 40 years after the Beastie Boys' hit single.
'Tis the season for celebrities across the country to descend on Kentucky. With the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby just days away, Louisville becomes a who's who of Hollywood and A-list stars. Celebrities are invited to Kentucky Derby parties, like the Barnstable-Brown Derby Eve Gala, whose guest list includes *NSYNC member Lance Bass, R&B singer Patti LaBelle and other star-studded names.
Even Louisville's mayor annually releases a guest list for race day . But this year, a horse trainer is sending out an invite to a band who released a rebellious rap anthem 40 years ago. Kenny McPeek, who won the Kentucky Oaks and Derby in 2024, is inviting the surviving members of the Beastie Boys to Churchill Downs.
McPeek trains 2026 Kentucky Derby contender Right to Party. Right to Party is named after the band's song “ (You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party) . " The hip-hop/punk band was composed of Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz on guitar, Adam "MCA" Yauch on bass and Michael "Mike D" Diamond on drums.
McPeek's invitation to the bandmates extended to more than just attending the Derby. He's also asked them to take part in a Derby tradition: the walkover. It's like a human parade, in which trainers and their owners walk on the dirt track with their three-year-old colt from the backside to the paddock ahead of the legendary race.