Superhead II: Mos Def's Wife Writes Book

In 2005 Karrine “Superhead” Steffans released her debut tell all novel “Confessions of a Video Vixen.” (HarperCollins Publishers, 2005, ISBN: 0-06-084242-3) The book went on to become a best seller, prompting a flurry of Superhead wannabes to pen their own tell alls. Next up to bat was the mother of Nas’ daughter, Carmen Bryan.

Like Superhead, Carmen’s book (It’s No Secret - Pocket Books, 2006, ISBN: 9781416537205) detailed her relationships with some of the biggest names in the industry, including her former beau Nas and fellow New York native Jay-Z.

Now, Mos Def’s wife, Alana Wyatt-Smith, is lending her pen to the game with her book “Breaking the Code of Silence.” In an interview with HipHopDX.com, however, she says that she isn’t trying to call people out and name names (although she does several times in the interview). According to her, she is trying to help other women in similar situations.

Mos Def’s Wife

The news of Mrs. Wyatt-Smith’s book first hit the scene because of shocking allegations that her husband, Mos, physically abused her prompting the end of their marriage. (See article on her allegations here.)

In the interview with HipHopDX, however, the former video vixen tries to back track, albeit unsuccessful. “He was forceful, he touched me, yes he did. I’m a little skeptical on what to say. Headlines are saying “wife-beater,” “abusive,” she said.

“I don’t want them to get the impression that he’s a wife-beater or he’s abusive - I’m also not justifying it. It was a situation where he got aggressive. He came home from shooting a movie one night and pinned me down to the bed and was on top of me, spitting and yelling, ranting and raving. I kicked him to get off of him; I ran to the door to get help...”

OK, so if this incident was not abusive, what is?

Maybe she is trying to back track because she doesn’t want her estranged husband to completely cut her off. Maybe writing a book putting all his business out for the world to see wasn’t enough. Who knows.

The shocking part of this whole debacle is that Mos has enjoyed a career not only as an actor, but as a dope (yes, dope) lyricist who spits messages of black love, unity and peace. Mrs. Wyatt-Smith’s book attacks the foundation upon which he has built his musical career … his character.

With that said, can she say anything that would prevent him from being upset?

The Real Rap

OK, so you have low self esteem (by Mrs. Wyatt-Smith’s own admission). So what you want to be a part of something. Does that justify betraying the trust and confidence of someone you said you loved?

Of course not. But it's a sure bet that profits from book sales do.

The question now becomes: Why are these men still sleeping with these women when they know it is going to end up a chapter in some novel?

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