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Portrait of Mos Def

Mos Def

Dante Terrell Smith

Mos Def is an American rapper from New York City, New York active since 1994.

Profession
Rapper, Actor, Songwriter
From
New York City, New York
Born
December 11, 1973
Years active
1994–present

Early life

A Brooklyn native, Dante Smith emerged from the late-1990s underground and formed Black Star with Talib Kweli.

Career

His acclaimed solo debut "Black on Both Sides" and his acting in "The Italian Job" and "Cadillac Records" made him a respected dual talent.

Major achievements

He earned Grammy and acting nominations and is regarded as a leading conscious lyricist of his era.

Legacy

Mos Def (now Yasiin Bey) is a touchstone of socially conscious, literate hip-hop and a serious screen actor.

References

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