Malik B. aka Malik Blunt, is a rapper who appeared on the first three albums released by The Roots. Since his mysterious dismissal from the group, many rumors have circulated regarding his dismissal, many of which include drug abuse (Heroin in particular), though the official explanation given from Black Thought was that Malik B. had enough of the gruelling tour schedule and wanted to spend more time at home in Philadelphia. He has an EP out, entitled Psychological.
He has an EP out, entitled Psychological.
On The Roots' album Phrenology, Black Thought dedicated a song to Malik B. entitled "Water." The song details how Thought and Malik B. met one another and eventually became essential in the development of the Roots. Thought's intentions were to make Malik aware of his potential talent, and to encourage Malik B. to stop using damaging drugs and to rededicate his career to hip-hop.
On The Roots' seventh studio album, Game Theory, released in August 2006, Malik B. appeared on three tracks, including the title "Game Theory" (track 3, listed as 116 on North American releases), "In The Music" (track 5, listed as 118 on North American releases), and "Here I Come" (track 8, listed as 121 on North American releases). The nature of his relationship with the group was indicated by the fact that his tracks were billed as "featuring Malik B.". In the liner notes, The Roots thanked Malik B, adding the statement: "Welcome Home." Malik B is also featured on two of the tracks on The Roots' 2008 album Rising Down, "I Can't Help It" and "Lost Desire".
Malik B. was featured on MC Solaar's 1994 album "Prose Combat" in a smashing duet with the French/Senegalese rapper.