By By Sofia Huertas
Mixing the overlooked beats of underground rap with the sounds of soul results in the rhymes of a renaissance rapper. Coming from the underground rap scene and rising to be known as one of the best emcees of the 21st century, Talib Kweli made fans at the University bob their heads as he spit his lyrics in front of a full house at Hofstra USA on Nov. 17.
His unique combination of lyrics, beats and vibe make Talib Kweli stand out from all other rappers. All of these things were full force at his performance.
Kweli, whose name means “seeker of truth,” opened with a strong beat from his highly anticipated upcoming album, Right About Now. While his previous albums have reflected on his past experiences, the new album reflects on his current life. Kweli delivered his music with a level of consciousness, beats, flow and greatness that has come to be expected from his faithful fans. His songs, old and new, brought out the classic vibe this emcee is known for. It can be said that Kweli breaks the “broken record” of today’s rap.
The new album was released on Nov. 22. Excited fans can look forward to new rhymes and lyrics balancing hardcore underground rap with soulful beats that speak the truth along with the emcee’s life “right about now.”
Although they did not appear on stage, the new album includes a collaboration with long-time friend and business partner Mos Def, who teamed with Kweli to create BlackStar, Kweli’s first rap duo. Other collaborations include Pitbull, MF Doom, Strong Arm Steady and Jean Grae. The album is also produced by well-known rapper Kanye West. This Official Sucka Free Mix CD includes “Fly That Knot,” “Where You Gonna Run” and “The Beast” among other rhymes.
Coming off a stint on Kweli’s Breed Love Odyssey Tour with Mos Def, DJ Chaps put on a show with skillful turntable spinning, as Kweli stepped aside to let viewers admire him.
The crowd threw their hands up to the beats of Kweli’s popular song “Get By” from 2002’s Quality. He balanced tight rhymes with the soulful lyrics of “Lonely People,” with the rhymes of Mary J. Blidge in “I Try” and “Never Been In Love.” Mixing 3-6mafia’s “Stay Fly,” Kweli let out lyrics of his own while moving side to side and urging students to let out a cheer and hand claps.
Even with his new songs, tracks from his previous albums and the mixes, the concert was short. This 45-minute appearance was disappointing. The sound of cheering and voices from those singing along to the songs was cut short with a “thank you very much” as the emcee bowed good-bye. More songs would have done the trick.
Still, Kweli accompanied by DJ Chaps, delivered a well-rounded show with hits from the past combined with his latest beats.
Undeniably, the small performance that was given was worth the price.