Mos Def Quotes & Sayings

“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.”

“I'm not shy about heated debate or passionate discourse, but when people get crazy or rude, that's a buzz kill. There's got to be a better code of conduct, some basic etiquette.”

“You're not gonna get through life without being worshipful or devoted to something. You're either devoted to your job, or to your desires. So the best way to spend your life is to try to be devoted to prayer, to Allah.”

“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 want to waste anyone's time or money. I want to give people some truth and positive heart lift.”

“You want to know how to rhyme, then learn how to add. It's mathematics.”

“The ability to have somebody read something and see it, or for somebody to paint an entire landscape of visual imagery with just sheets of words - that's magical. That's what I've been trying to strive for - to draw a clear picture, to open up a new dimension.”

“I can't control what people think. I'm not trying to manipulate people's thoughts or sentiments. I write all the time. You have to experience life, make observations, and ask questions. It's machine-like how things are run now in hip-hop, and my ambitions are different.”

“If Islam's sole interest is the welfare of mankind, then Islam is the strongest advocate of human rights anywhere on Earth.”

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