Focused. I'm a hustler. And my hustle is trying to figure out the best ways to do what I like without having to do much else.

That idea of peace and love toward humanity shouldn't be nationalistic or denominational. It should be a chief concern for all mankind.

I don't hate nobody. I hate certain conditions that are inflicted upon the people - and they're helpless with it.

That's what I've been trying to strive for - to draw a clear picture, to open up a new dimension.

African art is functional, it serves a purpose. It's not a dormant. It's not a means to collect the largest cheering section. It should be healing, a source a joy. Spreading positive vibrations.

The test in life nowadays is just trying to keep yourself charged up with enough good feeling. It's like, "OK what am I going to do to feel really good today?" Not like, some chick or a drink.

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.