Yasiin Bey
- Born:
- Dante Terrell Smith, December 11, 1973, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Rapper, Singer, Actor, Activist
Early Life and Education
- Raised in Brooklyn, New York, with a strong interest in performing arts from a young age.
- Developed his skills in acting and rapping, initially performing under various aliases.
Career and Major Achievements
- Gained prominence as a member of the hip-hop group Black Star, alongside Talib Kweli.
- Established a successful solo career, releasing critically acclaimed albums.
- Transitioned into acting, appearing in numerous films and television shows.
- Known for his socially conscious lyrics and activism on various political issues.
- Notably, the artistic evolution of mos def the ecstatic torrents marked a period of experimental sound and lyrical exploration.
Notable Works
Discography (Solo Albums)
| Year | Title | Label |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Black on Both Sides | Rawkus, Priority |
| 2004 | The New Danger | Geffen |
| 2006 | True Magic | Geffen |
| 2009 | The Ecstatic | Downtown, Universal |
| 2016 | December 99th (as December 99th) | GOOD Music, Def Jam |
Filmography (Selected Credits)
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2001 | Monster's Ball | Ricker |
| 2003 | The Italian Job | Left Ear |
| 2005 | The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy | Ford Prefect |
| 2006 | 16 Blocks | Eddie Bunker |
Legacy and Impact
Yasiin Bey has left a significant mark on hip-hop and acting, known for his insightful lyrics, diverse acting roles, and outspoken social commentary. His artistic contributions continue to inspire artists across various disciplines.