Artist of the Day- Common

You may know Common from his roles in Smokin' Aces, American Gangster and Wanted, but how many people can name a Common album? Exactly. Sure he's in some movies with some huge actors, but his musical talent can easily be overlooked. I have to say that Common is one of the coolest rappers in the game today. Between his flow, his lyrics, and his style Common brings together all these elements that not only create great songs, but also sheds light on how rapping isn't all about blunts, bitches and riding around in maybachs.
Common does a lot of things most rappers will never do in their careers. Incorporating live instruments into his songs, as well as stories instead of hooks, give Common a style that is hard to replicate. The song "Time Travelin' (A Tribute To Fela)" off Like Water For Chocolate pays tribute to Nigerian music legend Fela Kuti. Today you hear all these songs about rappers missing their dead friends, but how often do you hear a song about a widely respected and talented artist? Common uses themes that are in fact "uncommon" and opens the eyes of an entire genre.
The one thing I cannot get over is how cool he is in the "Maker Her Say" video. CuDi's verse is sick, Kanye kills it as usual, but with the last verse Common steals the spotlight. In a good way ofcourse. With the line "Down Down For A Damn, Cudi Already Said It, Her Poker Face Book I'd already read it" Common not only thanks Kid CuDi for including him on the track, but also adds something to the track that was very needed. The entire song is sick and is once again another CuDi song I never get tired of.
For a little Common trivia, I'll leave it to you to find the answer to this question:
What is the name of Common's first Grammy nominated single?

Make Her Say (Video)- Kid CuDi ft. Kanye West and Common