yasiin bey Returns With “Money Christmas” Solo Release And Live Stream
Yasiin Bey is back. The Brooklyn native is set to release his first solo work in five years with a live-streamed performance on Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. GMT. Titled “Money Christmas,” the music will be released digitally before coming out on vinyl in the coming months.
Fans can purchase access to the livestream on Bandcamp for $7.99. According to the official website, the replay will be available for 48 hours, and the video will later be posted on Bandcamp for purchase for $9.99. Mastered audio tracks of the live EP will be available for purchase and download 24-48 hours after the performance, as will select items of merchandise designed by yasiin bey, available to preorder ahead of the release.
“WHATEVER YOU THINK IT IS … IT’S NOT THAT,” shared a caption on the 51-year-old’s Instagram page announcing the project and sharing the accompanying artwork. Titled “Osanta Bin Lyin,” the cover was painted by bey’s friend and collaborator, Spanish-Moroccan artist Anuar Khalifi. The image depicts a man resembling Osama bin Laden dressed in a Santa Claus costume.
“Osanta Bin Lyin” by Anuar Khalifi (@anuarkhalifi)
Money Christmas will be the first solo release from the rapper formerly known as Mos Def since 2019’s sound installation Negus. It follows the physical release of the No Fear Of Time Madlib-produced Black Star album earlier this year, as well as the BEYONDOOM tour last month, in which he paid tribute to the works of the late great MF DOOM.
According to a press statement, Money Christmas’ live-streamed debut is the first of several upcoming releases intended to inextricably link the acquisition of music to the artwork and supporting video footage, creating a stronger and more creative bond with fans.
Take a look at yasiin bey’s announcement below.