Pharoahe Monch released three albums as part of the rap duo, Organized Konfusion with partner Prince Po. All albums received positive critical reviews, but moderate sales. As a result, the duo split up after recording their final album in 1997.

Pharoahe Monch then signed to Rawkus Records, an indie label. Monch's much-hyped debut, Internal Affairs was released in 1999. The first single of the album, Simon Says, was a major hit in 1999; he was later sued for the unauthorized use of a Godzilla sample, which forced Rawkus to stop printing of the album.

Monch has since announced a deal with Street Records Corporation, home of David Banner and Terror Squad. The album was scheduled to be released in late 2005 but has been pushed back to early 2007.
About the album, Desire, Monch said: "...it's very soulful, very gospel, a fresh, new sound for me."