Black Star

Released in 1998, Black Star's self-titled debut was immediately heralded as a hip-hop classic, full of insightful, intelligent wordplay and deliciously mellow production. While Mos Def and Talib Kweli have both released solo LPs since, this group effort remains a favorite of critics and fans alike.

If real MCs are only found underground, then Mos Def and Talib Kweli, a.k.a. Black Star, are
representing the real. The Brooklyn duo's debut is not only an eagerly awaited rap album
but also a desperately needed one. For Black Star, hip-hop is, simply, skills, self-awareness
and love of their art – not Rolexes, Benzes and the Benjamins. Corny? Maybe. But Black
Star would rather be corny than predictable. Take "Brown Skin Lady," a lush bal... More >