Brooklyn native Mos Def (born Dante Terrell Smith) has enjoyed a dual career as a rapper and actor. Since the age of 14, he has been featured in several films and television series. He's also put out a few albums since 1998, including Black Star, his debut effort, featuring Talib Kwali. Def has since continued to refine his formula. His brand of hip-hop is a blend of jazz, rock and blues, together with soul and poetry. The rapper has shied away from clichés and hasn't been afraid to buck convention and raise awareness.