Mos Def

Black on Both Sides is the acclaimed debut solo studio album by American rapper Mos Def (now known as Yasiin Bey), released on October 12, 1999. Following his successful collaboration with Talib Kweli in the duo Black Star, Mos Def released an album celebrated for its live instrumentation, lyrical dexterity, and socially conscious themes.

The album blends East Coast hip-hop with neo-soul and jazz influences, which contributes to a layered and organic sound. A wide range of producers and artists collaborated on the project, including DJ Premier, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Q-Tip, and Busta Rhymes.

Mos Def addresses a broad spectrum of topics, including the hip-hop community, water pollution ("New World Water"), institutionalized racism, and everyday life in Brooklyn. The title itself speaks to the complex realities of being Black in America.