Talib Kweli Greene (born October 3, 1975) is an American
hip hop recording artist, entrepreneur, and social activist. He is the son of professional educators. In 2011, Kwelifounded
Javotti Media, which is self-defined as "a platform for independent thinkers and doers. " Kweli earned recognition early on through his work with fellow
Brooklyn artist,
Yasiin Bey, formerly known as
Mos Def, when they formed the group
Black Star. Kweli's career continued with solo success including collaborations with famed producers
Kanye West,
Just Blaze, and
Pharrell Williams. Kweli is known to support artists on the rise, such as
J. Cole,
Jay Electronica,
Kendrick Lamar, and
NIKO IS.