Why Common is the Underrated Legend You Need to Listen to Right Now

Do you feel like you need to take a break from some of today's monotonous music and dive into an artist that has given us classic hits for more than two decades? Say no more — Common is your man! Common's illustrious career spanning over 20 years has produced some truly unforgettable musical memories, making him one of the most iconic rappers ever. But with all his success in both rap and film, there have also been moments where he hasn't exactly received the level of recognition that he deserves. Fear not though – we are here to go through it all with a humorous eye and do our best to give this wonderful artist his due credit!

Have you ever found yourself scouring through endless playlists and feeling like everything sounds the same? Are you tired of the generic, cookie-cutter hits that dominate the airwaves today? If you're looking for an artist who breaks the mold and offers something truly inspired, then look no further than Common. This legendary rapper seems to keep getting better with time, crafting classic hits that span generations. Unfortunately, many music listeners have overlooked him, and it's time to correct that mistake. In this blog post, we will delve into Common's celebrated career and highlight all the reasons why he deserves your attention.

Common, whose real name is Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr., began his career in the early 90s, making a name for himself with politically charged lyrics and a conscious rap style. His critically acclaimed debut album, Can I Borrow a Dollar?, cemented his place in the hip-hop scene, and he soon became one of its most reputable figures. But it wasn't until his third album, Like Water for Chocolate, that he gained the widespread commercial success he deserved, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album. This album also demonstrated his versatility by blending different genres like soul, jazz, and gospel into his music.

Common's artistic pursuits don't end with rap. He's also made a name for himself in the film industry, showcasing his acting skills in movies like American Gangster and Selma. He also earned an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2015 for his contribution to the movie Selma's soundtrack, with the track Glory” featuring John Legend. This collaboration proved he could still deliver powerful and politically charged messages with his music up to today’s standards, a proof of his long-standing relevance in the entertainment industry.

But despite his various accolades, Common hasn't always received the praise he deserves, which is where we need to step in and recognize his contribution to music and society. His commitment to social justice and highlighting the struggles of underprivileged communities is something that sets him apart from many other artists. One example of this would be his song The People, where he talks about the frustration of living in a world where police brutality and social inequality are prevalent.

Common's exceptional storytelling skills are another reason why he stands out. His ability to paint vivid pictures with his words is unparalleled. His lyrics are heartfelt, and they often address heavy subjects like love, life, and spirituality. In I Used to Love H.E.R., a song released in 1994, he used the metaphor of a woman to symbolize the deterioration of hip-hop culture. It's a song that's considered a classic in the rap genre, and it's a testament to his talent.

In a world where many artists come and go, Common has proven to be a refreshing constant in the world of music. He's an inspiring individual who stands up for what he believes in, and it's clear that his passion for justice and equality can be heard in all of his music. So let us all take a break from today's monotonous music and dive into the inspiring sounds of Common. His music is timeless and will continue to be an inspiration for generations to come.