Talib Kweli & Yasiin Bey Talk Black Star I & II, Chappelle, Rap History & More | People's Party Full 

TIME STAMPS: 2:39 -- Yasiin and Talib reflect on the first time they met in New York's Washington Square Park. They also go on to discuss his song 'Umi Says' being dedicated to Bey's parents and his mother's inspiring words of "Shine your light on the world" and we also hear about a song and video his mother let him know that she didn't approve of. 7:42 -- Yasiin speaks on his brother DCQ and his legacy in Brooklyn as a serious battle emcee. They talk about his brother seeing Bey's potential early on as a gifted writer and the things that he put in place for them to come together in 1994 and form the group UTD (or Urban Thermo Dynamics). He also explains what inspired the group's name, his high school friend Ces getting put on to the crew and their aim of becoming a rougher version of the Fugees. 18:00 -- Yasiin is asked to let us in on what the feeling was during the time of Black Star recording their first album at Rawkus. They discuss Black Star's focus on paying homage and bringing attention to those that laid the foundation of the culture, reflect on the positive vibes they experienced during the time of writing for the album, being inspired by albums like Tribe's 'Low End Theory' as well as Diamond D's 'Stunts, Blunts & Hip Hop', and they dig into what a special place New York was during the their era. 28:03 -- Yasiin quotes one of his childhood friends with "It’s black, it’s white, it’s money - it’s all unequal. The adjectives can never be nouns; We are the people...." He then goes on to name some of the groups he listened to as a youth that had the most impact on him and his evolving world view. They discuss golden age NY emcees maintaining their edge without glorifying the street life and Yasiin rejecting labels that would put him in a box. 35:51 -- Talib expresses his respect for Yasiin as a man that lives his words. They go on to discuss Bey's focus on bringing attention to the continuation of colonization pact forcing 14 African countries to pay France a colonial tax for the benefits of slavery and colonization. Yassin also details his process of coming to the decision to move to South Africa. 40:39 -- Yasiin digs into the inspirations for his 2004 rock infused album 'The New Danger', why he has always been so intent on steering away from any kind of persona, talks about ignoring both the positive and negative reactions of what he chooses to do and just focus on his individual mission. Talib then goes on to ask if that factored into his decision to change his name from Mos Def to Yasiin Bey and Bey tells the story of someone calling his name at an airport that was an awakening. 48:45 -- Talib quotes Yasiin from his song 'Priority' where he states "peace before everything, God before anything, love before anything, real before everything". He goes on to ask Bey if it's been difficult balancing his spiritual side with rap stardom. Yasiin shares a prayer from the poet Abu Bakr al-Siddiq that resonated deeply with him and another from the Desiderata about not comparing yourself to others as he relates that to avoiding ego-trips and just focusing on being himself. 53:43 -- Yasiin and Talib discuss their meeting up in South Africa during the time Bey was living there and how much of a learning experience that was for both of them. They also speak on real human connections that are often missed when friends get together, Yasiin's focus on being as good a friend as possible to his loved ones, the importance of people minding their mental health and checking in with those you care about when you see signs of stress and Bey gives a hilarious reaction to the question of why he likes Madlib's production so much. 1:06:03 -- Yasiin is asked about his criticism of the streaming industry, which segues into the reasons for the delay of the highly anticipated 'Black Star II' album. They discuss music streaming services short-changing artists and Yasiin also speaks on not wanting to be run by audiences expectations as he sends a somewhat provocative and very clear message to those that are pressing Bey and Kweli to release the album already. Bey stating "stop knocking on the kitchen door and asking when the album's coming when none of y'all can cook''. 1:15:21 - Yasiin is asked about his acting career and if he can name off his favorite roles that he's had over the years. They share some laughs over Talib wondering what was going on with Bey sporting a perm and talking like Chuck Berry, not knowing he was in the middle of filming 'Cadillac Records'. We also get another very honest answer from Bey when he's asked what set he had the most fun on. 1:20:46 -- Yasiin speaks on his endeavours into the world of art. Working with creative director Set Free Richardson to open the Compound Gallery as well as an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum. He goes on to give the highest of praises to Julie Mehretu for her incredible achievements in the visual arts and willingness to work with him. Bey also explains the personal way in which he appreciates art. They then go on to discuss Dave Chappelle's 'Kindness Conspiracy' that he pitched to the public during his SNL monologue. 1:28:06 -- Yasiin talks about how much he's enjoyed doing 'The Midnight Miracle' podcast with his close friends Talib and Dave Chappelle and also goes on to make a strong statement of support for Talib in the wake of all the negativity that's floated around on social media, as well as makes the admission of his and Dave's rejoicing after Kweli's "eviction" from Twitter.

Yasiin Bey is the reason why I love hip hop. Black on Both Sides is my favourite album of all time. The topics he speaks on, speak to me. And because of him I found my favourite artists, producers and sounds. Talib, Black Star, The Roots, Hi-Tek, Madlib, Dilla, De La Soul, Pharoahe Monch, Common. Too many to list.

Yasiin is one of the most colorful speakers I’ve heard.

“Kindness is a form of intelligence & brilliance, and cruelty is a form of stupidity.”

Very calm and collected dude, Yasiin Bey. As a teenager growing up in Madrid and getting into rap, I bumped 'Black Star' all through '07. Last March I saw him by chance in a café in Barcelona, had to say hello and pay my respects. I was so nervous I called him 'Mr. Def', probably the time I've been most starstruck😂 Great to see them chopping it up.

"Who cares about Twitter? This fish is delicious." - Yasiin Bey, 2021.

Yasiin is such a kind, sincere, humble ,intelligent and beautiful soul.

For a man who doesn’t like to give interviews he gave an amazing one. I thoroughly enjoyed it, much love to Yasiin!

No timestamps needed on this one. We are listening to the whole thing. 🎧

Yasiin’s voice.. that voice. It always takes me back to my best memories and experiences growing up embedded in hip hop culture. He is the epitome of hip hop and though this phrase is thrown around a lot, he truly changed my life. Real words.

Yasiin you will probably never gonna read this, but you're top 5 MC dead or alive to me (and you're not a thing for the record). Peace and thank you for helping my parents raise me. Alhamdoulilah, life is great

"called you a Sufi Mystic" Yasiin Bey: "i'm a knucklehead in recovery" LOL the sincerity is soooo refreshing. Praise God

Best Yasin interview ever. Thanks to everyone that made it happen.

Shout out to Talib for letting the man speak. And not trying to box him into a corner. Great interview all around. Bey’s honesty about his relationship with the fans is refreshing. He’s basically asking us to stop it with the weirdo fandom shit. A great lesson for all of us that these “heroes” of ours are human, not a mascot for our selfishness or ego

I’m proud of my Muslim brother. Rap music doesn’t always have to be gangster to be powerful.

Been waiting for this one since People’s Party started - thanks for making it happen

One two three Mos Def and Talib Kweli We came to rock it on to the tip-top Best alliance in hip-hop

Mad love for Umi and all Umi’s in the world.

Shout out from Cape Town South where Yasin lived for a while. Years after his departure, the locals still speak about his time here and the really cool and real experiences they had with the brother. We appreciate you out here. On another note, Black Americans should just come home. You guys are needed here. You guys built America. Your talent and expertise are needed on the continent. And you would be much safer here because it really pains us to hear of how endangered the black man is over there. Every unjust death, reverberates with us here. Ofcourse this is me being ideological with absolutely no plan! Hahahaa! Marcus Garvey had a dream. Allow me too

Mos Def ✊🏾 one of the best to ever do it in Hip-Hop

I'm sooooo happy Talib Kweli has a podcast. This is soooo great.

Man. Been a fan for 20+ years. Black Star was in my brain permanently since the first time I listened to it. Actually "borrowed " my buddy's copy of The New Danger when that came. Still have it. That shit blew my mind again. Great to hear flaco speak for so long.

This man’s comedic timing is impeccable. 😂 Brilliant mind, beautiful soul.

Only on The People's Party were the people ever able to be blessed with an interview with Yasiin, raw and uncut. Loved it.

I love Yasiin Bey i hope he's living the best life possible. a truly great man.

Front row at Rock the bells 06, dude stood right in front of me to watch Rakim perform in awe.

It's time. Shout out to Kwe, Jasmin and Yasiin Bey, from South Africa. Yasiin is one of my favorites on raps, and on screen. I havent seen a rapper/actor that comes close to Yasiin acting skills. Lauryn Hill and Yasiin Bey seem to be on the same frequency about the B.S in the music industry.

I can honestly say this is one of the best hour and a half I ever spent watching RU-vid. Thank you all for this.

When Yasiin quoted Kurt and said most people who love music for real end up trying to create music themselves. Here I sit 10 years playing guitar for myself thinking I've wasted time since I never have made music to release. But I love it so much. I hear the nuances at times. I don't just play music in the background. I mean there's music for that too but I enjoy deciphering things, figuring out how it was done. I gotta go do my research when I love something. I do it out of passion. Unfortunately I drag myself down too and haven't gone after my dreams but I hope that changes soon. Only I can change that.

Mos just totally sonned us for wanting a blackstar album 😂

This is one of the best interviews I've ever seen and heard. Thank you for making this available.

Mos.... Yasiin... said he wasn't into Nostalgia. But he got nostalgic for a few minutes talking about NY back in the late 80's early 90's. Totally loved it. Because I lived thru that time too. I remember the clubs and the streets then... Good ol' days

Glad Mos Def did this interview. He's a legend. Salute.

Yassin makes me want to Be Kind and Rewind streaming movies when im done watching them

This interview was priceless. Best people’s party ep yet. Mad props to Talib and Yasiin for who they are, and everything they’ve done. Keep on Y’all. Blackstar for Life yo. Peace.🔥🎤🔥🎤🔥🎤🔥🎤🔥

I can’t remember the last yasiin bey interview I saw. Seeing a friend interview his friend made this the one.

I been waiting for this 1!!!! Much love to u guys. 2 of my all time faves to ever to collaborate on a project

thank you as always for this! great to hear Yasiin talk. Funny, inspiring, eye-opening, entertaining... y'all are dope!

Big Ups to Yasiin Bey for this genuine conversation and enduring the interview/ podcast setting. I appreciate you and whole People's Party crew to putting this together and out.

this was an amazing interview. Listened last week, but patiently waited for the video. Salute to Black Star!

one of the best interview, with one of my favorite human beings Yasiin Bey. It was a breath of fresh air to listen to such an genuine, honest conversation. Nothing but love

Can't wait to watch this later today! Yasiin is one of my favorite artists, and it's been amazing seeing black star's navigation through the industry and technology through these years. I know the next project is going to fire when it does come out

I've never laughed this much listening to an interview, I laughed so hard I cried! I love the way Yasiin expresses himself. You brothers are a shining example of what brotherhood is, the love you have for one another is extraordinary!

This the one I've been waiting for. Thank you, brothers.

Yasiin is the epitome of being your authentic self. One of the most brilliant minds in all of music. His brother and close friend, Talib respects his brother's craft, spiritualality, and genius. The ep I've personally been waiting for has finally arrived party people. The Mighty Yassin Bey is Aqui! Blessings for this one! Peace and love to the People's Party! Rock Rock, On!

I love to see the Rawkus family interviews, people like Mos, Pharoahe, Common, Bahamadia, Wordsworth etc. The Soundbombing/Lyrist Lounge day’s were good times for us all.

This is my favourite People’s Party interview no doubt!! Thank you for this! 🙏🏼 Truly inspired with the wise words spoken by Mos Def! A true icon and one of the best on the mic 💯 Black Starr all day everyday ✊🏼 Much love to all ❤️

The Mighty…Yasiin Bey! One of my all time favorite emcees ever. Spent my teenage years hooked on Black on Both Sides and Black Star. Those albums helped raised me. Hats off to the kings

This is the one I been waiting for. Thank you Kings for doing this one. 🔥🔥🔥🔥

I'm very fortunate to have been one of them Kids to play White Tag with Him & His Brother when they spent them Summers at G-ma House in Roosevelt Houses back in the days. I always been a proud fan/friend to watch you grow like that plant continue to Shine my Brother RV 4life!!!!!

My favorite interview thus far, because I've been waiting PATIENTLY to hear this brotha speak! I love the humanness of this brotha...strength, vulnerability, intelligence, knowledge & excellence.

This is awesome and classic! 🥰 Thanks a bunch for this! 😊👍🏽💚💙💜💛

This is literally one of the best things I’ve ever seen or heard. Immediately sent this to about 20 of true friends, such a blessing! Now please give us the Black Star album I don’t mean to piss you off further Yasiin lol

I'm blown away by this interview. It made me very happy!

From the heart, thank you to all involved. We needed this.

Beautiful interview, good vibes on this. Thank you so much !! Bless

I’ve been waiting a long time for this one!!

What we've all been waiting for!

the best one by far. loved every minute of it. dropped some crazy gems. dope

Fantastic interview. That Black Star album solidified my whole being and existence as a black man. One of the greatest ever produced, period.

Sonically you 2 Brother’s helped me out in good and bad times,Big ups and True respect ✊

I have been waiting for this interview ❤❤❤🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

What more can I say…this artist/spirit is a blessing for anyone looking for enlightenment.

Been waiting for this. Mans a legend

BEEN WAITING ON THIS A LONG TIME AND ITS FINALLY HERE

Thank you Talib for putting out the full interview.

The interview I’ve waited for since day 1. Gonna watch now

This the 1. Blessings yall! I'm here now🙏🏾

This interview was priceless, I genuinely was dying of laughter at the 1:04:18 mark when Yasin went off on the Madlib collab question.

This episode was amazing & refreshing!! Y'all knocked it out the park wit this one!! Much love&Respect to ya👊💖 Sidenote: Train of thought & the Estatic are both Hip Hop masterpieces✌

I loved this interview😎😎And yes, youre a good interview for sure. Thank you for this and all of the music you blessed us with. Ive been wanting to hear what both of y'all have to say since the 90s

My favorite episode, so far. Salute!

love this.... today needed this.

This was so dope seeing Yasiin Bey ( Mos Def ) again! Great show lady and gentlemen.🙏🏽😇

applying every quotable from this conversation to my life. brilliant orator man. love to yasiin

Salam aleykum! I never comment on the comment sections but this is by far one of the best interviews ever, period. Thanks to everyone who made it happened and thank you brother Yasiin Bey. May Allah shower you with eternal blessings.

Loved it! For someone who doesn’t like interviews, I’m sure this could have gone for hours…

One of your best episodes yet,so many gems dropped by Yasiin!

His portrayal of Vivien Thomas is Something the Lord Made was just amazing. Just supremely talented brother.

Really appreciate this interview with Yasiin Bey.. Insightful and inspiring.

Yasiin Bey is one of few people that make stringing intelligent metaphors together look effortless, Thought, AZ, Elzhi, Phonte, etc. are just a few others that are in the same catagory.

I’m so proud to say that…I was there. I was fortunate enough to witness the evolution of these two titans. We’d travel from Jersey to bear witness. The two of you are a part of my narrative, thank you for contributing to the soundtrack of my life.

Yo this right here was the interview I was definitely waiting for both of my favorite emcees sharing "History"Salute

No way what a legendary interview - Mos was my favourite rapper & Talib is one of the most respected in the game - Both are real rappers rappers & are up high in everyone's books.. Love your work Talib so much respect :)

This has to be one of the dopest interviews I’ve seen in so long! Shot out Yasiin Bey Kweli and Jazmin! I’m about to go blast me some Blackstarr and Black on both Sides peace 🤞🏽

I really don't know how yall gon top this episode...I thank you, this was beautiful

A world wind of emotions takes over me listening to UMI SAYS! YOU BOTH MAKE MUSIC THAT TOUCHES THE SOUL AND I THANK YOU FOR IT! Much Love for the underground!

Hey Mos, I just watched an old interview and you said something very important. Thank you 👊🏾🙏🏾

Damn that was a terrific ending. All the layers of yasiin, I love em all, the ones he's shown us, but that ending was mos def.

Its good to hear Yasiin speak his mind. Peace bruh and keep rockin' on!

💯 ...I needed to listen to this at this time in my life!!!! Thank you!

We Live and learn thru our peers. Our Era deserves 👏 so much Reflection! 90's as a Young Adult was Fire and the music These two brothas shared still Echos Loud!!!

Yassin bey is an incredible Black man

I was wondering when the full interview was going to get posted. Been waiting on this.

Two of my absolute favourite MC‘s & Yasmin in a stirring Conversation....like it so much…greetings from Germany

This was the illest, thank you Queen and King!

The convo about NY in the 90's is spot on! Had no idea Yasiin & Talib were in those clubs too. It was epic! (and dangerous)

I love how they are reflective on NYC in the 90s. Brings back so many memories!!!!❤❤❤

I've been waiting for this forever.

Man this was awesome 👏🏽. I needed to hear both my brothers. Yasim bey is so deep even when he just being regular. Y’all are some inspirational brothers.