Yasiin Bey
- Born:
- December 11, 1973, Brooklyn, New York City, New York, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Rapper, Singer, Activist
Early Life and Education
- Born Dante Terrell Smith in Brooklyn, New York.
- Raised primarily by his mother, who was involved in the Nation of Islam.
- Began acting in television and theater productions at a young age.
Career and Major Achievements
- Rose to prominence in the mid-1990s as part of the Native Tongues collective and with the group Black Star, alongside Talib Kweli.
- Released his solo debut album, Black on Both Sides, in 1999, to critical acclaim.
- Established a successful acting career, appearing in numerous films and television shows.
- Known for his socially conscious lyrics and activism.
- In 2016, there were travel issues, some claiming that rapper Mos Def banned from US, and subsequently, he faced difficulties traveling.
Notable Works
Discography
| Album Title | Year | Label |
|---|---|---|
| Black on Both Sides | 1999 | Rawkus, Priority |
| The New Danger | 2004 | Geffen |
| True Magic | 2006 | Geffen |
| The Ecstatic | 2009 | Downtown, Universal |
Filmography (Selected)
| Film Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Bamboozled | 2000 | Big Black Africa |
| Monster's Ball | 2001 | R.L. |
| The Italian Job | 2003 | Left Ear |
| The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy | 2005 | Ford Prefect |
| Be Kind Rewind | 2008 | Mike |
Legacy and Impact
Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def, is recognized for his contributions to both hip-hop and acting. His music often addresses social and political issues, and he has been praised for his lyrical skill and artistic vision. His acting career has spanned a variety of genres, showcasing his versatility as a performer.