Why 'Mos Def' Disappeared - Here's Why

www.comedyhype... - Mos 'Yasin Bey' Def is easily regarded as one of the staples in Hip-Hop as he has made noteworthy collaborations with artist like Talib Kweli, Kanye West and more. Despite dominating music and eventually film, the artist has been seen less over the years. In this special 'HYPE+' report we investigate why. Instagram: @ComedyHype & Twitter: @ComedyHype_

[@camillejarrett5008]

Mos Def aka Yasin Bey is one of the most talented people I’ve seen. He’s an artist not just just a rapper or an actor.

[@thaxtonwaters8561]

Exceptional talent.👌🏾

[@camillejarrett5008]

@@thaxtonwaters8561 Without a doubt.

[@terucks]

That’s the truth!

[@debrariley7604]

I love this Brothers position, his essence is elusive. Great artist.

[@camillejarrett5008]

@@debrariley7604 same here. His talent just seems so effortless.

[@ninaangelique4811]

He's one of the dopest lyricist on the planet; great actor too🥰💪🏾🥰

[@treymoney5636]

Facts💯💯💯

[@np_management1931]

Definitely agree on that

[@thesolutiondude793]

He actually can sing too

[@BirdFromYakiVegas]

Mos DEFinitely

[@ninaangelique4811]

@@BirdFromYakiVegas Love the word play! 😉

[@WilliamDemas]

I was the house drummer for this funk band at a club called Abilene in Philly over fifteen years ago. Mos comes walking in wearing a floor length fur coat with a few friends, chilled and asked if he could get up with the band. I played drums for Mos Def... It's a memory I'll never ever forget and cherish to this day. They playing Mathematics with Yasin. Keep ya head up homie.

[@leslieisintheImajica]

That is incredible!

[@julz9378]

wow. what a memory

[@SteadyRoosevelt]

on South Street right? I loved that place. Awesome story bro that must have been such an amazing feeling.

[@chokmahhalacha3171]

What do you mean playing Mathematics?

[@joellebruce1014]

​@@chokmahhalacha3171 its the songs name. Not sure if you knew that or not. Just Answering your question homie.

[@businessasusual6893]

Yasiin Bey is a real cool and down to earth person , I actually met him at the Ritz Carlton hotel in New Orleans 2009 I chauffeured him around and just talking with him I learned a whole lot and we became cool from that moment, I introduced him to my youngest brother and I told him he’s into hip hop also , so he gave my brother a opportunity to meet up at the house of blues

[@valeriejackson4261]

Wow I love my city New Orleans Mos Def is a genius if u ask me. They tried to break him but they forgot he is a seed. #PeaceLoveAndLight

[@christopherali2828]

I met him at the Ritz-Carlton in Dearborn when a bunch of times when i was a Bellmen. First celeb that ever made me starstruck, gave me daps in the hotel lobby after shinin up his brooklyn chuck taylors. Him and Andre 3000 are my favorite celebs I've ever met.

[@tamaraslay]

I met and had a love affair with a employee at the ritz Carlton in New Orleans in 2017😂❤️ great staff

[@NottyGurlStyle]

It’s a shame he had to endure all these issues as a fan I was waiting and ready to support him and his music. The Black Star album with Talib is one of the greatest hip hop album made and I was definitely waiting for a part two. I’m glad he’s still out there creating and doing his thing on his terms

[@jamarkellum1370]

Black Star just dropped but i bet u knew that

[@jasonallen3678]

All his problems are petty and self inflicted weirdo behavior 🤷‍♂️

[@ForeignCease]

@@jasonallen3678 what's weird is people scared to do their own thing.

[@djtrackmatic6315]

@@jamarkellum1370 The new Black Star is crazy 🔥🔥🔥

[@fakepeople9385]

It always amazed me that a lot of conservatives actually liked mosdef and than when he started speaking in favor of blm they trashed him It’s like some conservatives don’t know the type of music that they listen to What made them think mosdef would oppose helping black people against injustices ? I don’t really understand Mosdef is black so of course his music will be for helping black people against injustices

[@Cooljohn760]

Thank you comedy hype for recognizing Mos Def/ Yasiin Bey. One of the best lyricist ever.

[@jgobeille1]

One of the best live shows I have seen to date. Where ever he is, whatever he is doing, I hope he is well and thriving.

[@rebrunrandom1636]

He just preformed on tour with Erika Badu last night in st. Louis

[@ChooseCompassion]

Mad respect for him and everyone who stands tall against the industry.

[@jguaponole3449]

The industry's never been right with any artists at all.

[@tintinjailhouse1312]

@@jguaponole3449 sooop sad its all of it !!

[@myman3879]

Who owns the industry though??

[@Hispanicfromanothaplanet]

I lost respect for him for bashing America thinking he could go to another country live a better life and he was flat out wrong that's what he gets now he's stuck in Africa.

[@myman3879]

@@Hispanicfromanothaplanet I love America as a Country but detest the people who run it. They are the worst of the worst. National and Global terrorists and that's not an overstatement

[@jovanbrown9673]

One could argue he’s up there with Will Smith, Queen Latifah, and Ice Cube as far as great rappers turned actors he was excellent as Chuck Berry

[@niwu5218]

Agreed

[@donitavann108]

Chuck Berry? Try Quest, Taaleb, Qtip, Wu etc. Will Smith? The Queen yes.🔥 Phillygurl 😎

[@judehaines5757]

Will Smith what you smoking

[@kingdomkonsciousness9094]

Great rappers? Maybe rappers that became great actors...however Mos def is in my top 10 all time rappers

[@agthaog1986]

he mighta had the potential to b better then all of them i just dont think he ever took it that serious ( as far as doing it for a long time).

[@terabyteturner3218]

Appreciate this piece….Multi talented, confident and gifted man Yasin Bey is. I was brought into recognition with him when someone randomly handed me an “Ummi Says” cd in the village (NYC) although I’ve heard that voice often years before. I had the pleasure of taking one of the Queen Mothers of Brooklyn to see Mr Bey with Jeffrey Wright in “Topdog/Underdog” which we all enjoyed. I wish the brother ultimate Peace in his life and all his future endeavors.

[@theyz1morpheusb.r.o.658]

The yz1 Morpheus Reloaded kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmKsl2mKe5aNrck

[@phillismitchell5008]

Yes. I concur with U.🙏🏾❣🖤💚💐

[@jaleelel-shabazz6736]

Mos is the absolute truth. He can't just walk away, his depth of thought needs to be shared 🌊

[@ALLIN4CHRIST777]

Jesus Christ is the absolute truth every man can & will let you down. Accept Jesus Christ & Repent before it's too late. For the Kingdom of God is at hand. Our time is short. Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to Heaven. Without Jesus Christ expect hell🔥You've been warned! John 3:3

[@hz7654]

Genius talents, and more importantly REAL artists.. You don't see enough of that these days. So much respect for his work and staying true to himself. It takes a lot to not compromise your art. Hope he never stops producing and expressing himself, whatever the venue may be.

[@BrotherToby85]

One of THE most gifted Artists that I've seen in my time of living from hip-hop(BlackStar with Talib Kweli), comedy, acting, etc. It sucks that he got black balled in a more modernized way, but stayed TRUE to himself despite false allegations of the current times. I'm grateful that he's one of the few who stayed true to the Art and didn't sell out due to pressure from the outside. #salute!

[@Cogic]

That song Just to get by with Talib was the best back in 02 03

[@BrotherToby85]

@@Cogic Absolutely! Then the song he and Kweli on the Dave Chappelle show(1st season) was dope!

[@tylersvendsen3289]

@@BrotherToby85 heyatobe

[@theyz1morpheusb.r.o.658]

The yz1 Morpheus Reloaded kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmKsl2mKe5aNrck

[@deezworld2318]

I'm glad he got out in one peace. Shootout to the entertainers who didn't sell out! You truly know your value👊🏼👏🏽

[@sandraalbert562]

I am so glad to hear about him!

[@effu9593]

Sounds like south Africa was more dangerous than America.

[@allenfernandez8352]

Please don't say "shootout" LOL! Peace and security to this brother, tho 🙏

[@deezworld2318]

@@allenfernandez8352 hahaha autocorrect. Shoutout*

[@allenfernandez8352]

@@deezworld2318 ✌

[@danil.6667]

I helped him at the airport once (I used to work there). He was super low key and humble, unlike a certain other rapper I saw at another time. 😬

[@roymahaffey6987]

I’m a 66 year old white man who lives in semi rented west Texas, I never knew who Mos Def was until I saw the movie with Bruce Willis, in less than 5minutes in Mos Def’s character captured my attention. I could tell right off that this guy was a great actor, the man himself captured my attention. I’m glad he (and Dave also because he’s one of my favorites)is not going to let anything kill a true artist’s gift to all.

[@PrecYsely]

Went to one of his last shows at the Apollo in Harlem a few years ago , met him afterwards with Pharoah Monch, incredibly humble dudes for sure showed mad love, respect to them both🙏🏽

[@angeniquehopkins5246]

I can say as a teen, he was the 1st rapper to make me really listen to the lyrics of a song! Early on iIt made me filter wat I listened to, and i realized the difference between Rapper vs Artist, and Rap vs Real Hip Hop! He's a Living Legend💯❤️💪🏾

[@PHlophe]

Angelique, he left a good impression on me. But what is up with black americans taking arabic names but not touching actual african names. I don't get it. its weird

[@AbdulRaheem-Shabazz]

@@PHlophe He's a Muslim that's why he has a Arabic name like me when I converted to Islam I changed my name. In Islam we speak Arabic, are Arabic name has a meaning to it. When you see a Black person with a Arabic name that means they are probably Muslim.

[@Amarideout]

Yes queen. Fax

[@gtos6929]

I knew him as Mos Def with BlackStarr, with Talib Kweli, they were alright, unfortunately they dropped in an era when conscious rap wasn't really as popular. I liked Ms. Fatbooty his solo joint and N****s is Poorest, a solo joint he did as Yasin Bey, very thought provoking. I do, however, believe that acting is his forte. He has as much range the A-listers. If not for his non-conformist views he'd be on Jamie Foxx's level.

[@valjeanlee7060]

Rapper is different from a lyricist...

[@sampage5099]

I respect Yasin Bey for not selling his soul, that connection with the Most High is more important than anything in this World.

[@bjw3243]

Wow! I didn't know he was going through so much! Great video!

[@ReddCinema]

I'm honestly impressed by the time and effort you put into these videos, Keep it up! ❤

[@marksavoia3687]

Moorish History

[@7777Lace]

Yes, these videos are of a HIGH QUALITY & they represent Black American 🇺🇸 Culture EXCELLENTLY!!! Respect ✊🏽

[@marksavoia3687]

@@7777Lace #MoorLife

[@7777Lace]

@@marksavoia3687 Understood

[@moomootheking5684]

Ishowspedkids

[@wagnerp1213]

people don't know how much of a powerful person MOS def was and his foot in old school hip hop

[@adriennerobinson1180]

Truth Indeed

[@manuelmedrano6819]

And in new school. Cordae, Cole both heavily influenced by Mos

[@markieffmorris9263]

I hope he finally gets himself together - he’s insanely talented but clearly unstable as he continuously demonstrates through his consistently terrible life decisions. It’s just sad to see him suffer self inflicted irrelevance

[@wagnerp1213]

@@markieffmorris9263 What you mean? He was just on SNL with TK.

[@shango6100]

He was absolutely awesome in "Something the Lord Made"!

[@TheQuietStorm630]

Love Mos Def..He's one of my personal favorites..

[@PHlophe]

Kimberlyn, black on both sides but he baaaad deadbeat dad that's why he ran to Mzansi for a while

[@TheQuietStorm630]

@@PHlophe Honey were you one of his children he ran out on?

[@willissudweeks1050]

!

[@TheQuietStorm630]

@@willissudweeks1050 !"

[@xxxxbigrich5752]

Damn it's so crazy that he's had to endure all the bs because he's such a gifted human being. I'm a big fan of his work in hip hop & Hollywood. Even though is damn near impossible to find his new music I have too side with him and say he could do whatever he feels he has to do. Salute yasin ✊🏾

[@dugeyed3312]

Sounds like a crazy person to me,, A world passport isn't a real thing... He knows that so does the narrator... Retired 45 times.

[@brianlam1663]

So f-ing what if he’s a gifted individual!!! The law is the law!! Don’t like the law? Don’t live here!!! Why does he get a free pass to break the law just because he writes music?

[@jamesaltonwalton5259]

Dug eyed? S L A crazy nayguh to eyes clear no paper is bonified so how you know what A Body know? Your name tell me looney ain't on vacation k? And any circus hiring clowns if you know one lm submit your wild as can be name the name you disrespected? Ya, could call a revolution people love him so much so you Philistines who love flesh flash and plastic cars, cards,and guns9????????? L me introduce you to ,2000 pounds of pressure per bullet that is a Ton dummy ten shells Ten ton: DE.44 , Sounds? Knell and pray you never hear in now that sound booyacoooool

[@LuigiL75]

Yasin Bey...MY favorite lyricist of all time! This Brother is a Poet and a Prophet.

[@drtashemahaynes]

He reminds me of that period in history when our people didn’t “rap” they channeled from 5th dimensional- ancestral intelligence. That is exactly what they deem to take from our people! The God energy! I’m proud of him!

[@radioseppe]

Hip hop was about wordmanship, originality and having your own sound. Biting was the wackest. Now it seems like most artists try being from the same mold

[@drtashemahaynes]

@@radioseppe : I totally agree!!! Such a twilight zone now!

[@radioseppe]

@@drtashemahaynes Thing just evolve you know. Hip hop is now +40 years old scene and style, no wonder it has reshaped and evolved and also splintered in a lot of smaller and exclusive segments. (You got boom bap, drill, memphis sound, backpacker hiphop, and so on…) Like is all rock still same as the rock n roll was when it first blew up? Now you just got more of variety in this genre, like you have in jazz, rock, electronic music etc. I just try to realize the facts and find the shit that plays my strings the right way. Like a lot of big names considered musical geniusies and I get why but sonicly they don’t move me like they should. For example stevie wonder. I’ve gone thru his discography and well arranged, palyed and recorded music but just doesn’t do anything for me. Guess I’m saying each one for their own taste. No wrong answers in music.

[@kjordan911]

MOS DEFF/Yasin Bey is a true Renaissance man and needs to be treated as such. There is no boxing him in. Too much control outside of one self. Let him live in peace. Hell all of us for that matter.

[@elmoelbow]

This brother is so old school cool… super photogenic with an iconic style of his own. He reminds me of that period in our History where Black folks communicated beyond words, with a silent, bottom line energy that was truly appreciated universally. He is his own man … made from pieces of Malcolm and H Rap and Dick Gregory … wrapped up in some Marvin, some Bill Russell … Yaphett and Miles. Corporations fear any unique thing they do not understand or cannot control. Yaslin will not find his way … he will, instead, define his way. I see why his boy is Chappell. Water will always find its own level.

[@adriennerobinson1180]

Truth Indeed AMEN

[@darlenediggs7403]

Beautifully stated.

[@allenfernandez8352]

Bill Russell?

[@snoopingpuppy8392]

@@allenfernandez8352 Bill Russell used his celebrity in political ways. He organized multiple prominent sports figures to support Muhammad Ali when Ali refused to submit to the draft and fight in Vietnam. He , Jim Brown and Kareem were very outspoken during that period. Very strong and unconventional personalities.

[@allenfernandez8352]

@@snoopingpuppy8392 I definitely knew about Kareem and Brown but not Russell. I need to catch up with the research. Respect 💯

[@michellebryan7247]

I was wondering what happened to him. He's also an amazing actor. Check him out in the movie "Something the Lord made". It's educational with a powerful message.

[@FindYourFree]

I was grateful to hang with him and Talib early in their careers..He was always funny and down to earth

[@michaelharrison4703]

This man was a good lyrical artist and a good actor

[@olddboodaa4395]

Freaking sad what talented artist have to go through to make a positive name for themselves.

[@GreedomWorldwide]

Man I was at that OneMusic Fest and so glad I got to see him perform.

[@draflex]

Seeing nothing but well deserved respect for this legend here.

[@chaazaqyahyasharal9121]

Hands down one the greatest to do it, the Mighty Mos Def (Yasiin Bey). Thanks for covering one of my favorite artist.

[@theyz1morpheusb.r.o.658]

The yz1 Morpheus Reloaded kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmKsl2mKe5aNrck

[@thomash1268]

His best role was in Something the Lord Made, was outstanding.

[@AleiaThatonegiel2012]

Agree!!

[@paul_321]

He also did a great episode on House

[@F8...]

I liked him in b kind rewind cuz it showed him being different

[@jonnypescado1]

I was coming out of work one night as a kid, and Black on Both Sides CD was on the ground next to my car in an empty lot. It was a life changer. So incredibly talented. His spoken word at the end of Jil Scott's Love Rain Coffeshop Mix is some of the most beautiful poetry I've ever heard. Something the Lord Made should be shown in schools and watched by people of all colors. As *extremely* intelligent as he is, his conspiracy theories and worldview get me though. He's able to articulate masterfully, but the dots just never quite connect. I sincerely hope he comes back and brings that unifying spirit with him. We need that now more than ever.

[@LyricalMurderer1]

I remember watching him live on Rock the Bells in 2006. Dude was definitely battling a lot. He was a shell of himself on stage and I know he was going through things.

[@tlingitgirl07]

Yes! I met him that year at Rock the Bells.

[@cymsensible7604]

Thank you!! Yasin Bey is a deep and real lyricist and a very good actor! Much love and appreciation for the update. I've often wondered what happened and where he disappeared to? 🤔 💛 🧡❤

[@missapprayerspeacelove]

I so appreciate this content. It’s funny how I in the recent past weeks said to myself, I wonder how Mos Def is doing and I miss him on the screen and all. I’m happy to see that true friendship never dies, having been seen out with Dave Chappelle, and my man Q-Tip. That’s love! Well #yasiinbey #mosdef just know that you will always have the support of your fans over here in the U.S.. Continued blessings from Above and Prayers to you and your family Mos Def. 🙏🏽✌🏽❤️

[@HairbyNedjetti]

Great video👏🏾 It was a true honor to have cornrowed our lengendary Yasiin Bey's hair for his "Umi Says" music video in 2000 ❤️🖤💚 Yasiin's a BeY👑Utiful talented soul of warmth and peaceful vibes🧘🏾‍♂️ His mother (Umi) and father were also on set, he allowed me to take 📸 a special Village Love experience I will forever cherish🤛🏾 God's protection, light & 💙 around Yasiin's cipher and his family🙏🏾💫

[@shawnjohnson2653]

just saw him last month so.....Yasin is mos def still around. and happens to be one of the most uplifting humans to be in the presence of.

[@iveriani]

Mos Def is undeniable…. one of the greatest genius emcees of all time ✨

[@theyz1morpheusb.r.o.658]

The yz1 Morpheus Reloaded kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmKsl2mKe5aNrck

[@HUYI1]

Forever! Lol 😂😂

[@davesuiter]

He has NO talent. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o168g2awgb6hlZY. just look at this fool

[@abrahampalmer8761]

Facts mos def is easily one of the greats

[@Shin-Blade]

One of my favorite MCs of all time! Stayed true to himself and smart to know his worth... 🙏🏾

[@theyz1morpheusb.r.o.658]

The yz1 Morpheus Reloaded kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmKsl2mKe5aNrck

[@hobocat33]

“It’s about the work, the work got you the public profile. So I keep the focus on that “ Engaged human🏆

[@CJ-3121]

WOWWWWW...didn't know all of this was going on with Mos Def...thanks for sharing this information

[@lendog203]

This man has been around for loooooooooong time. NOTHING but respect not just for his skills on a mic but his entire gamut of items he's KO'd... He's truly an amazing talent. Miss you MosDef. one love.

[@gabriellewilliams1315]

Wow,...my daughter and I were talking about him last week. I loved his acting. Will you.do any more movies? Miss you Bey.

[@yve6536]

I like the song *brown sugar*

[@gooseman8361]

May your choices in life be for internal peace. You've always been a great example here in the US to all. To your fans, to your friends and family. Also to your enemies and those who disliked what you are all about. Unfortunately everyone has them also. Thank you for being who you are. From Allentown, PA

[@1977FordLTD]

I feel like anyone who goes against the grain and really makes people feel, think and change is TARGETED. The state will try to discredit ANYONE pushing self realization, peace, Black power, people power to make then seem criminal. Beyond has a strong message. Thanks for sharing this.

[@gjayeb]

salaamu alaikum wow this voice sounds like yasiin..he is a very kind hearted and true to his word person! This is sis rasheeda from jersey..Stay true always to this diin and u will stay on top...

[@tony64t]

Well, I saw this coming. Years ago, he was on a panel on a late show. I can't remember if it was Bill Maher's Real Time or The Daily Show, but the subject was about disarming one of the Middle Eastern countries of their nuclear weapons abilities. I remember him saying " How you gonna tell any other countries that they can't defend themselves? " that's when I knew that his days in Hollywood were numbered!

[@adriennerobinson1180]

OH WOW, NOS DEF SPOKE THE TRUTH!

[@tony64t]

@C.D to some extent, Lauryn Hill as well.

[@parkerxjr]

Ironically none of the countries he moved were predominately Muslim. Great artist though.

[@tylersvendsen3289]

] no

[@BOX3DOUT]

@@parkerxjr ironically you proved yourself to be a bigot exactly what you seem to dislike..... unironically..

[@thaxtonwaters8561]

Yasiin Bey is creatively ambidextrous. His TRUE talent allows him to shapeshift into any industry. Who needs fame? Loved his work since 'Big Brother Beat' 🎤💪🏾🎩

[@Pgschool37]

It's been since the "Lyricist Lounge" days for me. The movie "Something the Lord Made" was another high point in his career.

[@notundermywatch3163]

* ambivalent

[@henrygee622]

My legend it was me who give you the first damp at Dave Chappelle show Thursday night. I'm The Third eye that had the Airforce hat satting on the back with yall on stage. High respected for Dave Chappelle.

[@whatdoesit_takeuk3062]

I have literally been wondering for the last few months, what happened to Mos Def, one of the purest and dopest MCs/black ambassador/human ambassadors. Maybe my google/youtbe algorithm understood this, hence this video coming into list to watch. For me Mos Def is an unassailable human being, his lyrics promote everything that needs to be promoted. I respect leaving USA, but going to South Africa for freedom is nuts to me. No offence to all the cool dudes/dudettes I have met along the way, but SA is even easier for you to get taken out, probably green lighted from the western world big businesses he pissed off in the first place. Mos Def is GOAT, #TALIB #2PAC #KANYE (BEFORE he went crazy) #wutang #MLK #Dave_chappelle #kat williams #sam_cooke and many more. Ethnic prophets will always be targetted and eliminated or converted as soon as they can take the shot

[@2felixford]

Seriously, his vibration has been resonating. He has been in my spirit as well. We have mentality and spiritually come together, unknowingly to assist in breaking that stronghold from South Africa.

[@KarbonStar]

Out of all the rappers he is THE BEST actor! I was truly hoping to see him on screen again and of course his music. The Black Star album came on the brink of my adulthood and definitely made an impact.

[@adriennerobinson1180]

Truth

[@adriennerobinson1180]

Truth Indeed

[@lucaslambertucci1350]

method man está no mesmo nível.

[@ThePhatFilosopher]

I truly believe mos def would’ve went down in history, even bigger than jay z, if he didn’t just up and disappear. 🙏🏽😔his absence has changed the trajectory of hip hop indefinitely

[@terrenceliburd4094]

Nah no one will ever surpass "Mr. Brklyns Finest" The King of NY

[@bOmBAsTiK]

FACTS!! Nas was never as much a threat to Jay's "crown" as much as Mos, DMX and Eminem in '99 imo. Dante could've been the best to ever do it

[@juswolf22]

Why even compare jay? Jay had his own trajectory and mos is still going down in history.

[@ThePhatFilosopher]

@@juswolf22 I disagree. They both similar, imo. I just think mos def had most the talent. While with jay z, it was all about positioning.

[@juswolf22]

@@ThePhatFilosopher how are they both similar besides they both rap and from Brooklyn? Jay was more business and mos was more about the art.

[@Bullsheetbob]

Yasin is my friend. I have grown up with him. He is such a humble person and loves to help anyone.

[@hadiyyahjenkins]

That’s my baby Always! Love you Mos Def🎉😊

[@laziwemdladla]

As a South African, I apologize for Mos' injustice😭

[@kaylenejantjes8113]

Awe, I was about to say the same. Home Affairs just being Home Affairs.

[@guyanacreations4073]

As a blackman I apologize for South Africa!He should've move to Ghana or Rwanda!!

[@Ngatiatimothy]

Lol! There's nothing to apologize for. He was an immigrant in SA on a VISA. Just get you papers in order. I love the guy and his music but his political statement blew up in his and unfortunately his family's face as well.

[@petermorton301]

Sir Lazarus stand up brother for the Black Man and and Black Woman no matter where they're on earth

[@PHlophe]

He should of taken an actual african name. i onno what Yazin bey is. but he looks more like a Siyabonga Dlamini to me.

[@silencef96]

Wow, I truly miss him. He was incredible

[@essiegilliam1857]

I love you soooo much Mos Def. Your talent is Outstanding.

[@lorraineboucher8879]

Mos Def has been one of my heroes ever since I got into blackstarr, the profound depth of his lyrics, acting (be kind rewind and hitchhikers guide to the galaxy being two of my fav films of all time) and music and the inherent sincerity of character, that I believe is his real self that comes through, is something I hold in great respect. His presence in music is when music and hip hop took a turn into quality, true creativity and class. I am a white Jewish south African woman...so not your usual demographic but I feel privileged to have grown up in a time and city (pretoria) where hip hop was blowing up and I was taught what real music is from one of the greats..that's you Sir. I wish my home country had not done what they did it would have been a great honour to have you as a fellow member of this crazy dysfunctional beautiful S.A. tribe I call my own...May God bless you on your journey in which He still, I'm sure, has so much planned for you....stretching from music to bringing nations together..that's right I said it ! Much love to you and your family....

[@YasminE-dk6nf]

Thank you for the update. This brings back fond memories of my teenage daughter and I going to see "Mos Def" (Yasin Bey) years ago at BAM in Brooklyn! Excellent Artist!

[@joycelyntaylor3136]

Taking ownership of one's self scares ppl. Y.B. is one my favorite entertainers.... always! Note: I was disappointed when I visited S.A. and several other countries in the Mother land for a few months. Home IS where the Heart IS.💗

[@kaylenejantjes8113]

What disappointed you about SA?

[@caroljackson4093]

Please elaborate a little about your experience in S.A.

[@fathersdaughter1225]

I am not a fan of rap, but I LOVE this dude.

[@robinlewisart_1997]

Thank you for this video. I've always loved his music and acting, he has shown a lot of integrity his whole career. He never folded and he gets nothing but love and respect from me.

[@tmoore7049]

I'm so sad he felt that way. I have admired him for years. I wish him the best.❤️🙏

[@user-ux3zj3di4l]

🙌🏾 Yasiin Bey will always be one of the dopest lyricists!! 🔥🔥

[@BrightResultsMedia]

“The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side.” Hunter S. Thompson

[@maryrutledge1147]

As Ford Prefect he was the best part of Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. And he's sure got it right that there's something wrong with America. It takes a strong person to remain true to themselves and keep their humanity instead of only chasing the dollar. I wish him much happiness, contentment and love.

[@ingridsumter5679]

So so thankful to hear about one of my real favorite entertainer in the world. It shows how bad it is out there when you have respect, dignity and integrity.

[@laylapaz8822]

I sure wish he'd come live in Honduras! He'd live like a king here and he'd also be a great influence to the Garifuna (Afro-Honduran) community. He's one of my favorite entertainers!!!

[@jaimemartinez2528]

I'm Garifuna too and I spent many of my teenage years listening to Mos, Kweli, Common, and Dead Prez. One love to you and all the Garinagu's out there 🇭🇳🇭🇳🇭🇳✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾

[@swannoir7949]

He may end up like Dr Sebi

[@laylapaz8822]

@@swannoir7949 Good point!

[@proudafricanamerican7586]

Much respect from the states!

[@BlackKataklyst]

Before even watching. Yasin is one of the most genuine, real, person we have on this planet. I'd give a lot just for an hour of talk with this guy.

[@someguy7046]

his style is articulate, intricate & hypnotically toe tapping / head bobbing

[@ladym2398]

I really dig this dude! It's a respect for him. I've never really gotten into his music but I thoroughly enjoy his acting abilities. Brother Yasiin, I applaud you for doing you...

[@larrycurry3254]

Don’t sleep on the music

[@ladym2398]

@@larrycurry3254 you know what? You're right! I'm gonna check it out. 👍🏽

[@larrycurry3254]

@@ladym2398 my favorites are Umi says, Kalifornia, there is a way, fake bonanza! Also check out black starr

[@lucylue3585]

Thank you so much for this report❤🖤💚 I really like your reporting style. Pleasant, straight to the point, no fillers, no fluff, no opinon taints, no stuff. I wondered about where he was and what he was up to. You are Appreciated 👑👑👑

[@MissMerricka]

Love him! "Be kind, please rewind" is literally one of the funniest movies ever. 😂😂😂😂

[@HousewerkRecords]

Got nothin but love for Mos Def aka Yasiin Bey. I’ve grown up listening to his work and all I can say is his energy and who he is come through in his music and that why I love it so much. You do you bro. Stay true. ✌️

[@vicsmooth27]

Yasiin Bey is a great artist and seems like an even greater man. I grew up listening to his music and still to this day I’m inspired by his songs. It’s unfortunate that great people such as Yasiin suffer for striving to make this world a better place. The narrator said “homies” while reading the lyrics, when it’s actually umi or ummi which means mother or foundation in Arabic and I’m sure Yasiin Bey’s mother is proud of the man he’s become.

[@donitavann108]

My dude, always. One of the Best to do it.🔥🔥🔥🙏🏽

[@brauliorincon140]

Thank you for this video🙏 I really wanted to know what happened to him, I’m glad he’s doing good, I hate the fact that he had to go through all that, but a straight legend nonetheless 💯

[@elizabethhill8184]

I like this brother he is very talented and seems to be very intelligent

[@tamikabland79]

It's so sad he had to go through all he's had to go through. He's definitely one of the most talented, gifted and prolific artists of our time on so many levels. Blessings to him and his family

[@theyz1morpheusb.r.o.658]

The yz1 Morpheus Reloaded kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmKsl2mKe5aNrck

[@xh0rsex]

As a white metal head from the suburbs, I always liked this guy. I liked his roles in film and stuff he did/does for activism. Seems really genuine and down to earth.

[@fixlore2514]

Very detailed Well Done Some extra info He is a muslim The meaning of the letters Ya Sin, while being primarily unknown, is debated amongst Muslim religious academics. One of the interpretations is "O human being!" The term ummi derives from the noun umm, which means “mother,” “source,” or “foundation,” as in the Quranic umm al-kitab (sourcebook, primordial book). Islamic beliefs and teachings referenced in the song umi says: Tomorrow may never come For you or me Life is not promised Tomorrow may never show up For you and me This life is not promised I ain't no perfect man I'm trying to do, the best that I can With what it is I have I ain't no perfect man I'm trying to do, the best that I can With what it is I have Put my heart and soul into this song (yes, yes) I hope you feel me From where I am to wherever you are I mean that sincerely Tomorrow may never come (nah) For you and me Life is not promised Tomorrow may never appear You better hold this very moment (this very moment) Very close to you (right now) Very close to you (right now) So close to you, So, close to you (your moment in history is right now) Don't be afraid, to let it shine Gotta have that love Peace and understanding One God, one light One man, one voice, one mic The song is a call to appreciate the now and also call for unity and true self expression and humility to accept that the NOW is something that really needs to be appreciated and acted upon with Sincere Love and Pursuit for Logic and Ture Kindness. By the way: To whom it may concern - I suggest you search youtube >> ( Surah Yaseen | Qari Tareq Mohammed | سورة يس | القارئ طارق محمد ) here is the youtube link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJ64Y35-bL6nf7c I hope you listen and read with sincere intent, reasoning and pure humility. It is merely a chance to appreciate what might be unknown to you. give it a try. Thanks for your time.

[@taneishahn4020]

Great Rapper, singer and actor! This man is beyond talented!!

[@joannanderson8444]

All around talented, poetic, Actor extraordinaire. Because of all of this they are denying him to be political. He's to powerful. Nevertheless he still receives his flowers by those that know of him. IJS. Peace and Blessings.

[@jamaresmith]

I find it interesting that he left America only to face what he did in Africa. Is that ironic? Either way, Bey is one of the dopest to ever do it. Everything he touched he blessed, whether it be art, film, or music. I listen to pretty much anything he drops because I know it is going to be though provoking and dope....just like 3 stacks.

[@Munyabrwn]

South Africa is run by the same ideologies used to run America. Nothing changed.

[@never2muchluther803]

What's troubling to me is, he went to the Mother Land and was treated as if he was a criminal, over the same passport he used to enter the country. Yes, he admits his passport was expired, but to come after him like he was a criminal just doesn't seem right? There has to be more to this passport story?

[@seektruth5750]

South Africa

[@never2muchluther803]

@@seektruth5750 your right. You let foreigners come to your land 100's of years ago, and take whatever they want, and you as native people allow these foreigner's to settle in your land, and allow these foreigner's to make laws to benefit themselves, but not you!!!??? Yet, you throw someone out of your country who's ancestors originated from your country?

[@seektruth5750]

@@never2muchluther803 what are you on about, am not home affairs

[@johnnymokumba9620]

Bruh, I thought the whole thing was a Mos Def monologue, lmao. You sound like him. Great voice.

[@70mschristianlady65]

Love it! Look forward to seeing your next creation! Loads of love from Louisiana

[@breyuna]

This is my favorite celebrity. I love that he shows up randomly acting or rapping on shows lol

[@the4cqueen148]

Yasin Bey is a Lyrical ICON. SA tried to milk this man of his fortune with all the red taping. Live in peace my brother.

[@thandisilec835]

South Africa rightly enforced its immigration laws as all countries do, this man isn’t special…you break the law, face consequences. he got deported and nothing was milked from him, he’s barely rich. Now he’s never allowed to come back to the country because he stupidly tried to present a fraudulent non-recognised travelling document& overstayed his visa innSA

[@myswagobsession]

I miss his acting. I loved him in Brown Sugar. His music is always welcomed, he’s that dude.

[@soloro7112]

We need this brother

[@ypayne9871]

Most Def/Yasmin Bey is and has always been 🔥 🔥 🔥. Hope he gets the respect he deserves.

[@k.lisaswensen9877]

I've been wondering where he went. I'm not a fan of his politics but he's a talented actor and such a kind individual. Fame will chew you up and spit you out. Good for him to step back and focus on family. 👍

[@TonyLeeBruce]

Nice video. I was lucky enough to see him performing recently in NYC (I didn't realize how lucky until watching this) with Talib Kweli as Blackstar. It was incredible and Yasin was radiant.

[@devdetective1758]

As a South African, I must add something. Most countries have this law, but if you arrive in a country and have your arrival stamp in a passport. You must leave using the same passport. E.g. You can't arrive using a USA passport and leave the country with a World passport