Tag: Interviews

by Hugo Lunny

The now more infamous than ever Source magazine broke Lonnie Rashid Lynn, otherwise known as Common (formerly Common Sense) in the early 1990’s through featuring him in their Unsigned Hype column. Relativity soon after took him on a whirlwind ride that would later end up having him known for formerly loving “H.E.R.” before transporting him over to MCA.

But through several albums, Common, though extremely respected didn’t receive the sales success he deserved.

In 2004, rumours spread and then were confirmed that Common was working with his old friend and 2004 “It” rapper, Kanye West. It wasn’t until 2005, however, when Common put out “Be” that his hard work finally paid off.

Still reaping the rewards earned by his largest album sales to date, Common continues to tour and is now expanding his creative endeavours to the clothing and children’s literature markets.

Original Article (extended)

by Todd E. Jones

Common is anything but a common emcee. First known as Common Sense (but had to drop the “Sense” due to legal problems), Common gained enormous critical acclaim with the love song to hip-hop titled “I Used To Love H.E.R.” where he uses falling in love with a woman as a metaphor for his relationship with hip-hop. After releasing many albums, (each one sounding different from the next), Common matured into an eclectic artist who takes chances and makes soulful hip-hop music that is extremely different from the mainstream.

Original Article (extended)

by Hugo Lunny

Few artists have been as revered or praised as the rapper formerly known as Common Sense. For the past thirteen plus years, the Chi-town emcee has entertained and presented bouts of introspection, which seem to be unforgettable. From “I Used To Love H.E.R.” through “Retrospect For Life” and “Sixth Sense,” fans and peers alike have kept Common’s praises sung loud.

It seems though, that talented artists don’t always get the commercial success and acclaim that they deserve. Yes, Common has gained respect around the globe, but in 2005, with the help of friend and fellow Chicago native Kanye West, Common seems set to see success beyond his experiences.

A wealth of classic descriptions with regards to his forthcoming album “BE” have helped hype up the release (which drops in May) considerably. Common even has his single “The Corners” on BET’s 106th and Park, something an introspective artist doesn’t often manage.

Original Article (extended)