The rap icon’s retirement run kicks off Dec. 21.
In the wake of being permitted to leave South Africa today (Nov. 22) after violating local immigration laws earlier this year, hip-hop legend yasiin bey (formerly known as Mos Def) has partnered with the Apollo Theater and The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to present his final U.S. performances. The special engagements will begin with a Dec. 21 show at Harlem, New York’s Apollo. Then bey will head to Washington, D.C. for a Dec. 31-Jan. 2, 2017 New Year’s Eve celebratory run at the Kennedy Center.
At the top of 2016, the rapper/activist/actor announced his plans to retire from the music business. During his farewell appearances, bey will perform songs from a different album each night -- including The New Danger, True Magic, The Ecstatic and Black on Both Sides -- alongside new material, while each performance will feature surprise special guests. Additionally, the New Year’s Eve celebration at the Kennedy Center will feature a post-performance party in the Grand Foyer. The rapper's artwork, as well as that of other artists in his arts, culture and lifestyle collective A Country Called Earth (ACCE), will be anonymously displayed at both venues.