Yasiin Bey Unveils New Project ‘Money Christmas’ Featuring Large Professor

Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def) has announced ‘Money Christmas’, his first solo project in over five years. Known for his unconventional releases, Bey continues to challenge the norms of music distribution, delivering bold political commentary and fostering a deeper connection between art and music.

Key Details About ‘Money Christmas’

Featured Collaboration: The project includes production from the iconic Large Professor, with the track “Condition of Terms” already generating buzz.

Artistic Collaboration: The album’s artwork, titled “Osanta Bin Lyin,” was created by Spanish-Moroccan artist Anuar Khalifi. It features a provocative depiction of Osama bin Laden dressed to as Santa Claus, underlining the project’s political tone. The album artwork, “Osanta Bin Lyin” by Anuar Khalifi, encapsulates the politically charged to themes Yasiin often explores. The striking visual of Osama bin Laden in a Santa suit invites dialogue about societal narratives, blending art and controversy to provoke thought.

Unique Release Strategy:

Availability: The album premiered on December 15 via a livestream and will soon be available on Bandcamp for $9.99. Fans who purchased access to the livestream can rewatch the video playback or purchase it separately. The previewed track “Condition of Terms” showcases Large Professor’s masterful production. Fans can expect the project to marry nostalgic beats with modern-day reflections, continuing Yasiin’s tradition of making profound statements through his lyricism.

Vinyl Release: A physical vinyl version is planned for release in the coming months.

• Yasiin’s approach prioritizes the direct relationship with fans by bypassing streaming giants in favor of platforms like Bandcamp, where art retains its intrinsic value.
• The project’s rollout underscores his belief in music as a collectible and immersive experience, with the promise of exclusive video content and physical vinyl editions enhancing its artistic integrity.

A Glimpse into the Future

According to a press release, ‘Money Christmas’ is just the beginning of multiple upcoming releases that aim to tie music, artwork, and video footage into a cohesive experience. This approach builds on Bey’s mission to forge a stronger, more meaningful connection with his fans.

Unconventional Rollouts: A Yasiin Bey Signature

Bey has a history of non-traditional releases that emphasize the value of art:

‘Negus’ (2019): Presented as a museum-exclusive listening experience, this eight-track project remains unavailable on commercial platforms. It highlighted Hip Hop as a quintessential American art form while minimizing technological distractions.

Black Star’s ‘No Fear of Time’ (2022): The duo’s first album in 24 years, produced by Madlib, debuted exclusively on Luminary alongside their podcast The Midnight Miracle. The album was later released in physical formats, with proceeds supporting global relief efforts.

Why ‘Money Christmas’ Stands Out

Bey’s approach to music, paired with Large Professor’s legendary production, reaffirms his dedication to creating art that transcends conventional boundaries. By linking music, visual art, and exclusive experiences, Yasiin Bey continues to redefine the value and impact of music in today’s digital age.

For those craving a unique listening journey, ‘Money Christmas’ is poised to deliver a compelling blend of music and activism, making it a must-hear for fans and art enthusiasts alike.