In this classic throwback episode of Drink Champs, N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN are joined by the legend himself, Talib Kweli! This unfiltered, wide-ranging conversation is filled with classic hip-hop stories, political insight, and personal memories. Talib opens up about his early days in Brooklyn, linking with Yasiin Bey (Mos Def) to form the iconic duo Black Star, and navigating the underground scene that gave rise to his conscious lyricism. The conversation also dives into his experiences with icons like Jay-Z, and Lauryn Hill, including behind-the-scenes moments and studio stories, and a surreal encounter with Prince. From discussing immigration and Black identity to revisiting moments with Common and The Notorious B.I.G., Talib showcases the depth of his journey as both an artist and an activist. This episode is a deep dive into hip-hop culture, community consciousness, and the legacy of one of rap’s most respected voices. It’s raw, real, and full of gems. Make some noise for Talib Kweli!! 💐💐💐🏆🏆🏆 - This episode was originally published on June 2nd, 2016 *Listen and subscribe at https://www.drinkchamps.com Timecodes: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:35 - Kweli’s Activism and Ferguson Story 00:02:53 - Don Lemon CNN Confrontation Explained 00:06:54 - Being a Voice for the People, Not Just a Rapper 00:12:51 - Lauryn Hill, Artistry & Ownership 00:19:18 - Early Days with Mos Def in Brooklyn 00:22:54 - Talib’s First Meetings with Mos Def 00:25:55 - Formation and Legacy of Black Star 00:29:23 - Rawkus Records and Underground Hip-Hop 00:32:18 - Starting Out: John Forte, Funkmaster Flex, & the Palladium 00:36:11 - Dispelling the “Serious” Reputation 00:39:01 - Voting Blocs & Political Organizing 00:46:50 - Vegan & Generational Language Gaps 00:53:25 - Afrika Bambaataa Controversy & Zulu Nation Legacy 00:59:23 - Public Figures and Internet Perception 01:03:03 - Sound on Sound Studios & Biggie Memories 01:10:09 - Meeting Prince & the Reverse Pimping Story 01:16:34 - Studio Sessions with Kanye, Common, and CeeLo 01:20:27 - Biggie and Sound on Sound Studio Vibes 01:23:56 - Confidence and Mentorship Moments 01:27:47 - Visiting Yasiin Bey in South Africa 01:31:00 - Hip-Hop as a Universal Language 01:34:31 - Early Kanye Studio Memories 01:37:36 - Talib on Kanye’s Genius from Day One 01:41:13 - Staying Grounded, Drinking Water at Drink Champs 01:57:55 - Politics, Rick Ross & Lighthearted Moments Follow Drink Champs: https://www.instagram.com/drinkchamps https://www.twitter.com/drinkchamps https://www.facebook.com/drinkchamps https://www.youtube.com/drinkchamps DJ EFN https://www.crazyhood.com https://www.instagram.com/whoscrazy https://www.twitter.com/djefn https://www.facebook.com/crazyhoodproductions N.O.R.E. https://www.instagram.com/therealnoreaga https://www.twitter.com/noreaga