Common (formerly Common Sense, born Lonnie Rashid Lynn on March 13, 1972) is a Chicago-based hip-hop artist known for lyrics that focus on love and spirituality. Many people describe him as being a concious hip-hop artist, one who makes songs that send a message. With the help of big time producers such as Kanye West, DJ Premier, and J Dilla, Common’s tunes are ear catching and meaningful.

As well as music, Common has worked as an actor, on the films Smokin’ Aces (as Sir Ivy) and American Gangster (as Turner Lucas) and will be appearing in the film Wanted in 2008. He may also be seen in cameo roles in films such as ‘Brown Sugar’.

His debut was the 1992 album Can I Borrow A Dollar, but he acheived little critical or commercial success until 1994’s Resurrection, an instant classic. He produced several more albums, notably Like Water for Chocolate and the highly experimental Electric Circus, before releasing the Kanye West and J Dilla-produced Be in 2005, which was his first album to receive widespread mainstream appeal and radio playtime.

Common is considered a “cred” artist, which has lead him to collaborations with the likes of De La Soul, Jadakiss, T.I., Talib Kweli, The Roots, Kanye West, Lily Allen, Erykah Badu, and Fort Minor.

Most recently released is 2007’s Finding Forever, which was produced mainly by long-time collaborator, Kanye West.