Talib Kweli

I remember looking back on a photo of me... wearing a suit that was, like, two sizes too big for me. I think a lot of guys don't know what fits.

I think hip hop is a dance music that's rebellious by nature.

I don't think that early hip hop stood out to be a social critique. A lot of fans of mine think that hip hop's ultimate responsibility is to critique social structures.

Being called a conscious rapper is quite a compliment. It's a great thing to be. But as an artist, my nature is to not be in a box.

The way I see it, if people truly love my music, they will support me in some way down the road.

Woman are complex creatures.

Well if somebody's giving me a script, I'll consider it. But it's not something I'm chasing.

The problem with our role is Americans live in a world of illusion.

So I think hip-hop is moving and is going to continue to move in the direction of rappers just being honest with themselves, whether you're talking about Common and Mos Def or Nas and 50 cent.

People consider Black Star a great album, and I think it's a classic album. But the fact is, both me and Mos Def have made better albums since Black Star.

Once you're signed to a label you compromise.

I'm not looking to set a standard... but, I believe I have offered a challenge to others with my work.

I will never do a record without some sense of responsibility.

I think all those artists are artists who are appreciated because you believe their words and you appreciate their honesty in their music. If you don't appreciate the honesty in the music, the beat can be fly as hell but you'll never give an emcee props.

I started rapping because I wanted people to hear what I have to say, I want as many people to hear me as possible, and I do everything in my power to make that pop.

I not only wanted to showcase lyrical skills but also continue to drop knowledge on the hiphop community. I'm looking to elevate through my music, and through my music I educate.

I don't feel comfortable making empty music.

Hip-hop isn't as complex as a woman is.

Hi-Tek is on three or four songs on the new record.

Even an independent label is looking for a hit, they're not looking for a record that's not gonna do well.