I Have Now Witnessed The Greatest 4 Minutes In Television History

By Mark Lorenz on December 16th, 2009

I think if we stacked up contemporary talk-show hosts against each other, Stephen Colbert would probably come out as one of the most groundbreaking. He’s not afraid to bring his performance art into the national scene, or to perform with his musical guests even. Which is what he did last night. He rapped with Alicia Keys.

That’s right, he rapped with Alicia Keys. She’s got a new album out now, The Elements Of Freedom, and she was on the show to promote it. Colbert donned a hoodie, and started reciting rhymes. His flow wasn’t as sick as I would’ve hoped, instead recalling the simple rhyme patterns of 1980s hip-hop, but who cares? It was a transcendent moment in television. One of few I can point to in my lifetime, which includes Colbert’s fight with Conan and John Stewart.

So here’s the video.

The other time I nearly lost it watching the “Colbert Report” was when he rocked the house with Crosby, Stills, and Nash. Stephen Colbert is truly innovative. Just, words and hyperbole fail me, so I’ll make a high-pitched squeeing noise in like twenty seconds.

Brilliant, brilliant television. This is what Conan O’ Brien should be right now, but unfortunately isn’t. Enjoy.

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