Making his name in the world of rap music, Common (formerly Common Sense) was best known for lyrics that focused on love and spirituality. Although his music fell under the socially conscious subgenre of hip-hop, which was constantly under popular and fiscal assault by gangsta rap, he created and maintained a significant underground following for over ten years. Eventually, Common would find more mainstream success and appeal on the big screen as an actor of some acclaim.

Born Rashid Lynn on March 13, 1972 in Chicago, IL, Common was the son of former NBA basketball player Lonnie Lynn, and was