Style(s) music(aux) : Music

Nationality : United States

Bio:

Lonnie Rashid Lynn, Jr. (born March 13, 1972), better known as Common debuted in 1992 with the album Can I Borrow A Dollar?, and maintained a significant underground following into the late 90s, after which he gained notable mainstream success through his work with the Soulquarians.

His first major label album, Like Water for Chocolate, received widespread critical acclaim and moderate commercial success. Its popularity was matched by 2005's Be, which was nominated in the 2006 Grammy Awards for Best Rap Album
Common is one of these artists who think outside of the box, he’s been exploring themes (musically and lyrically), which were uncommon for a Hip hop record, as he does on the song "Time Travelin' (A Tribute To Fela)"; a homage to Nigerian music legend, and political activist Fela Kuti. Common is one of the few rappers able to easily bridge the gap between the undergound and the mainstream scene. As he microphone fellows Mos Def, and Talib Kweli, the Chicago native is considered as a counscious lyricist, and a real activist.

In a recent interview (circa August 30th, 2007) with XXL, rapper Q-Tip of the group A Tribe Called Quest stated that he and Common were forming a group called The Standard. He says the group will head into the studio in a few weeks to record an album. Q-Tip himself will handle the majority of the production on the album but it will also feature some productions by Kanye West.
Common has also started a burgeoning film career, starting with a role in the action thriller, Smokin' Aces, which will be followed by a part in American Gangster.