"I began to fear that Mos Def was being treated as a product, not a person, so I’ve been going by Yasiin since ’99. At first it was just for friends and family, but now I’m declaring it openly."

It is interesting that he wants to stray away from the name 'Mos Def' because he feels it has made him something of a commodity. This public name change goes hand in hand with his retirement from music and film in an effort to alter his image.

Spin magazine described his debut album, 'Black On Both Sides' as "playful, witty and heart-pounding." This quote seems to perfectly summise his style- he discusses important topics but does so in a laidback with sharp lyricism and wit, almost entrancing the listener while also educating them on serious issues.

He sang the chorus in this song and the lyrics and tone of his voice have an obvious 'feel good' aura about them.

He states that for too long, Africa' resources have "benefitted everyone but Africa".

Well known for his outspoken criticism of the American government and judicial system, particularly during the war on terror- when Bill Maher provocatively asks him "Do you want to be blown up by a bomb?" he responds quickly with "I'm black in America- I live under constant pressure."

He was beginning to gain a reputation as a desirable feature artist who was able to write and perform a verse/chorus that was lighthearted and fun while simultaneously having a deeper meaning and provoking the audience to think.

The fact that he was able to produce a song with A Tribe Called Quest, who are titans of rap music and pioneers of the jazz rap genre demonstrates the growing image of Mos Def as a serious and talented rapper.

Mos Def can be quoted to have said "You are not going to get through your life without being devoted to something. The best way for me to spend my life is to try and become devotedto prayer, to Allah."

It is clear to see that his faith is a divining factor of his life and that he devotes himself to Islam.

This is undoubtedly the biggest, most successful film Mos Def has starred in. He appeared on screen alongside huge Hollywood stars such as Martin Freeman, John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell.

The album, which deals with racial inequality, philosophical ideas and sociopolitical issues, was released to critical acclaim, particularly songs such as 'Respiration' and 'Definition'.

The style and lyrical content showcased on the album was a far cry from the 'gangsta rap' which dominated the mainstream hip hop charts and helped cement Mos Def as a star in hip hop.

Since this announcement, he has not appeared in any films, but he has made numerous features on songs by other artists, for example on the title track of Kanye West and Kid Cudi's collaborative album, 'Kids See Ghosts'.

'Katrina Clap' is a protest song written by Mos Def in response to the Bush Administration's lack of action with regard to Hurricane Katrina and its effect on the African American population.

Mos Def performed several benefit concerts to raise awareness for the situation Jamal was in and his treatment by the authorities. Resultantly, in 2011 Jamal had his sentence changed to life imprisonment and was moved to general prison population.

In his later life, chose to legally change his name to Yasiin Bey. Yasiin is a name in the Qur'an's 36th surah and was chosen by Mos Def due to the importance Islam holds to him, after having converted in his late teens.

His left-wing views and activism strike a chord with likeminded people and extend his audience.