Brooklyn rapper Talib Kweli addressed perceptions of him as a “one-hit wonder,” often recognized primarily for his hit “Get By.” Despite this, Kweli proudly identifies as a “working-class artist” who has contributed to hip-hop culture for nearly 30 years. In September, he released his tenth studio album, The Confidence of Knowing, in collaboration with producer J. Rawls, further solidifying his ongoing influence in the genre.
Kweli is known for his relentless touring schedule, performing over 200 shows a year, a reduction from his pre-pandemic average of more than 300. He expressed confidence in his status among hip-hop’s elite, stating, “I do feel like I’m the most touring rapper, if not one of [them].” He contrasts his constant performances with the more sporadic tours of other successful artists, emphasizing his dedication to connecting with fans.
Despite his extensive discography, including 10 albums and numerous collaborations with artists like Yasiin Bey, Kweli acknowledges that casual listeners often associate him with only a couple of hits. “I think it’s fair for a casual listener of Hip Hop to view me through the lens of what we call a one-hit wonder,” he admitted, while also asserting that this label doesn’t fully encompass his career.
Kweli remains aware of his place in the culture, stating, “I’m very honest and aware of my place in the culture.” He invites listeners to explore his broader body of work, asserting that his loyal fanbase would passionately defend his contributions.
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