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Common

Common

Person·United States·since 1972·hip hop/jazz rap/alternative hip hop

Common is a versatile American rapper known for evolving from the lighthearted, stream-of-consciousness style of his early work into a sophisticated voice for conscious and virtuous hip hop.

His sound often blends traditional rap with jazz, bebop, and soul, a tendency highlighted by his work with the Soulquarians and producers like No I.D. and J Dilla. From the righteous anger of his protest-themed collaborations to the mellow, lounge-inspired instrumentation of his later projects, Common balances an old-school heart with a willingness to experiment. His career is marked by a dedication to craft and an exploration of themes ranging from urban struggle and Chicago's social complexities to universal love and spirituality. He has collaborated with various peers and artists, including A Tribe Called Quest and Kanye West, the latter of whom helped propel his 21st-century creative resurgence.

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  1. synff · threadSelected ArtistChicago across six decadesThree Chicago traditions across six decades: soul, alternative rock and hip-hop.

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