With every step along the way, Common has been able to gain the attention of a unique audience. His latest album, Universal Mind Control, will surely earn him a plenty of respect among robot-loving fans of techno-flavored rap who still bow 3 times in front of Afrika Bambaataa posters before breakfast.

Universal Mind Control was produced entirely by The Neptunes and OutKast collaborator Mr. DJ. And it wasn’t because Kanye, who manned the boards on Common’s previous 2 albums, was too busy to craft some beats for his friend. (After all, ‘Ye recorded 808s & Heartbreak in just 3 weeks, in Hawaii no less). He simply didn’t want backpackers to blame him for killing Common’s career. This album doesn’t pack enough weak sauce to get the job done but it’s a decent start. Here’s my unbiased synopsis of Universal Mind Control.
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Common has hopped in bed with Microsoft once again, following their Zune deal. This time, it’s for a clothing line dubbed Softwear. See a couple more pics of Comm’s Softwear tees after the cut. Read the rest of this entry »

Common - “Gladiator”
When Common and Pharrell closed out their Houston show with “Gladiator,” the building exploded. I’ve been waiting for the studio version since then and I have to say it was worth the wait. Common’s Universal Mind Control arrives on December 9th.

Bonus Cut:
Common - “Punch Drunk Love” (Feat. Kanye West)

[Thanks, Legend]

“My daughter now believes she can be the next president. Two years ago, she wanted to be a dancer. Now she says she can be the next president.” - Common

Like most Americans, Common was elated about Obama’s victory. No surprises here, though. Common has always been a strong supporter of his fellow Chicago native. Not only was he the first rapper to mention Obama in a song, he also canvassed for him on election day.

Knowing Common, he’ll probably sneak in a few lines about the significance of Obama’s victory on his new album, Universal Mind Control, due December 9.

Proceed to see ?uestlove’s teary reaction to Obama’s victory.
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At first I wasn’t sure if this was Common or not, seeing as any bald-headed black man would look like Common. Then I saw the Old Navy sweats, which I assume he’s rocking with crochet pants. Plus, if you look closely you’ll see a backshot photo of Serena on that desk.

See a couple more pics of Common calling Obama supporters below.
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Common in all his metaphysical glory on the cover of Universal Mind Control.
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Common and his “friend” Serena Williams took time of their busy schedule to go ride some waves in Hawaii. Check out a few more pics after the cut.
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Directed By: Hype Williams

Behold the music video for Common’s “Universal Mind Control” with Skateboard P, off the newly retitled Universal Mind Control album. I’m told the album is now set for 11/25, just in time for Turkey Day shopping.

Common and N.E.R.D. On paper, this sounds like 2 different shows. In reality, Pharrell’s click and Common share a common thread of coloring outside the lines: Common as a virtuosic lyricist who isn’t afraid to break the rules — be it the rules of rap or fashion; N.E.R.D. as an adventurous band in an environment that rewards conformity.

On the heels of Common’s upcoming album, produced entirely by Pharrell, their paths merged at the Houston Verizon Theater if only for one night. Opening acts N.E.R.D. (Chad was missing in action) delivered a thoroughly exciting and energetic performance, while headliner Common turned in a mellow, female-friendly, and surprisingly short set. Pharrell came back on stage and helped Common close out the show with a stunning rendition of “Gladiator,” off Common’s new album.

Here’s a photo account of the show. Read the rest of this entry »

Common gave Houston fans a taste of “Gladiator,” one of the Pharrell-laced songs on Universal Mind Control, last night at the Verizon Theater concert. It was definitely one of the highlights of Common’s performance.

After taking what must have been hundreds of pictures, my camera caved in. Good thing Enigmatik was around to record the video.