Lonnie Rashid Lynn, Jr. (born March 13, 1972), better known by his stage name Common, is an American hip hop artist and actor. 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. His best-of album Thisisme Then was released on November 27, 2007. Common recently started a burgeoning film career, starting with a role in action thriller, Smokin' Aces, followed by a part in American Gangster.

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 America