ll Communication was co-produced by Beastie Boys and Mario C.. Featuring musical contributions from Money Mark, Eric Bobo and Amery "AWOL" Smith, vocal contributions from Q-Tip and Biz Markie. Mike D and Adam Yauch collaborated with Gibran Evans of T.A.Z. to create the album packaging, and to choose the unique cover photo taken by Bruce Davidson. The hand-drawn typeface was created by designer Jim Evans specifically for Ill Communication, and was used throughout the promotion of the album. 

"The best moments of Ill Communication rank with the best music the Beasties have ever made, as well as the best pop music of the '90s... The first half overflows with brilliant, imaginative variations on their aesthetic...this is a near-masterpiece, and it is surely a highlight of '90s alternative pop/rock."