Behind the Beats: 5 Producers Who Helped Shape the Sound of 'Black on Both Sides'
Yasiin Bey, formerly Mos Def, released his solo debut album, Black on Both Sides, on October 12, 33 years ago.
The 17-track project, which earned the Brooklyn-born emcee widespread critical acclaim, remains a landmark in hip-hop, celebrated for its lyrical depth and disruptive production. Behind the scenes, a talented group of up-and-coming and established producers played pivotal roles in shaping its distinctive sound.
In honor of its anniversary, we're looking back at five producers who helped define this iconic album.
Himself
Bey was fully hands-on while crafting his first solo effort, particularly on the project’s eighth track, “Umi Says.” His production style is understated yet deeply soulful, reflecting his wide range of musical influences. “Umi Says” has since become a timeless anthem of hope and self-reflection, with its jazz-infused, minimalist sound standing out as one of the album’s most potent moments.
Lamont Dorell / Ayatollah
Ayatollah brought his production skills to two tracks on Black on Both Sides, including the standout record “Ms. Fat Booty,” a song that cemented both his and Mos Def’s place in hip-hop history.
His sampling of the late Aretha Franklin’s “One Step Ahead” infused the track with elegance and urgency, crafting an unforgettable beat that perfectly complemented Mos Def’s vivid storytelling. Ayatollah also produced “Know That,” featuring Bey’s longtime collaborator, Talib Kweli.
Charles Njapa / 88-Keys
Known for his crate-digging skills and ear for soulful samples, 88-Keys' production is deeply rooted in jazz and soul influences. His track "Love" perfectly showcases his ability to fuse classic soul with modern hip hop, providing a lush, melodic backdrop for Bey’s smooth, conscious flow.
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Christopher Martin / DJ Premier
DJ Premier's influence shines on the project's second-to-last track, “Mathematics,” a gritty, boom-bap masterpiece.
The hip-hop legend's skill for chopping samples, like The Fatback Band's “Baby I’m-a Want You,” blending them with hard-hitting drums made this track an instant classic. Premier's signature sound infuses the song with an authentic New York vibe, anchoring the album in the golden era of hip-hop.
Joseph Kirkland / Diamond D
The second track on the album, “Hip Hop,” is a heartfelt declaration of love for the culture, with Diamond D’s beat acting as the perfect backdrop for that message. Diamond D’s style thrives in simplicity, allowing the emcee to take center stage over his production.
