Rat Cage was an independent punk record label founded by Donna Lee Parsons in New York City. It was run out of a record store of the same name.
The label is best known for releasing the Beastie Boysâ debut EP, Polly Wog Stew, as well as their first hip-hop release, the maxi-single Cooky Puss. Some of its other notable signees included Agnostic Front and Heart Attack. Donna Parsons is also credited with designing the Bad Brainsâ iconic âÂÂlighting boltâ cover featured on their self-titled LP.
In 2002, Parsons came out as a trans woman; although they had long achieved worldwide fame, the Beastie Boys paid for her gender-affirming surgery. Knowing she wouldnâÂÂt accept such a donation, they sent her money under the guise of royalties for Polly Wog Stew. Parsons died a year later - on September 23rd, 2003 - of colon cancer.
Rat Cage discography: