LIVE: Yasiin Bey (pka Mos Def) at Howard Theatre

Photos by:  Tyrone Clemons

The Howard Theatre is shaping up to be the premier venue.  It was a stellar idea for Yasiin Bey and the show’s producer Jill Newman of Jill Newman Productions to bring the Gil-Scott Heron tribute to Washington DC.  It’s safe to say that Yasiin Bey was the perfect person to perform the tribute to Scott-Heron, because its no secret that he has been a longtime fan.  Some might recall that in 2008 Bey had the opportunity to perform with Scott-Heron at Carnegie Hall.

During the tribute his admiration for Scott-Heron was an emotional moment for both Bey and the audience as he talked about the illicit ills that plagued Scott-Heron.  All the while summoning the late poets musical spirit and mixing his own energy on Scott-Heron's work.  Bey also performed  John Coltrane’s classic “A Love Supreme” and “Black Radio”, the title track from jazz pianist Robert Glasper’s latest album.  The show might have started late but he most definitely made it a memorable night.