Tek himself is a self-described lab rat, relishing in long hours at the studio, ever-developing his "Hi-Tek" sound. "i don't think kids look up to rappers like we did when we were younger...People need to bring the artistry back to hip-hop.” With the same low-key demeanor he developed as a producer, he eventually constructed the basic elements of his style. By 1998, he found himself working with Kweli again. This time, Kweli and Mos Def joined together as Black Star to release the self-titled Black Star LP, an album that would gain nationwide critical acclaim. Tek produced six tracks on the groundbreaking album, instantly turning him into a hot commodity. Then in 2000, Hi-Tek and Talib Kweli teamed up on their own project, Reflection Eternal. They released the Train of Thought LP again to critical acclaim, and Hi-Tek's status as a b-boy icon was solidified. Tek's stock went through the roof. He went on to produce songs and beats for the cream of the hip-hop crop. Everyone from Dead Prez to G-Unit came calling after his services. Names like Ghostface, Papoose, Mos Def, Common, Talib Kweli, 50 cent, Eminem, Styles P., The Game, Beanie Sigel, the Eastsidaz and Snoop Dogg pepper his resume.

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