Common

Common is a hip-hop artist, actor, and activist who became a mainstream success in the early 21st century, known for intelligent and positive lyrics that were performed in a spoken-word style. He was the first rapper to win a Grammy Award, an Academy Award, and an Emmy Award. He first gained attention in the 1990s as one of the leading voices in the "conscious rap" movement, delivering insightful lyrics that tackled social issues, love, and personal growth. His 1992 debut album, Can I Borrow a Dollar?, laid the foundation for his career, but it was his 2000 album, Like Water for Chocolate, that propelled him into mainstream recognition with hits like "The Light."

Throughout his music career, which now totals 15 studio albums, Common has been celebrated for his lyrical depth and collaboration with notable artists, blending hip-hop with elements of jazz and soul. His 2014 song "Glory," co-written with John Legend for the film "Selma," won an Academy Award for Best Original Song, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy, marking a major highlight in his career.

Common's acting career has been equally impactful. He made his mark in films such as "American Gangster," "Selma," and "John Wick: Chapter 2." He also appeared on the television series "The Chi," "Hell on Wheels," and "Never Have I Ever," among many others. His roles often align with his socially conscious public persona, emphasizing themes of justice, equality, and empathy.

A three-time author, Common has penned the memoirs “One Day It’ll All Make Sense,” “Let Love Have the Last Word” and "And Then We Rise."

For the past several years, Common has dedicated countless hours and has been deeply engaged in social justice and advocacy work around mass incarceration, mental health and voting. After the success and impact of his Imagine Justice concert in 2017 and his Hope & Redemption Tour to eight different prisons, Common decided to establish and launch Imagine Justice as a new nonprofit in 2018. Centered at the intersection of art and activism, Imagine Justice is dedicated to leveraging the power of art to advocate for communities around the country, to fight for justice and equality and to stand united against injustice wherever it appears.