Chicago hip-hop legend Common unexpectedly dropped this No I.D.-produced gem, “War” yesterday via the Internet. Long regarded as one of the more influential and insightful artists of his generation, the conscious rap king delivers what amounts to an address of the current state of affairs in Chicago right now. Throughout the track, Common takes ownership of his hometown’s issues, asking the questions that need asking and prodding for something to be done. It’s refreshing to hear Common release something socially and politically aware once again, in a tasteful manner that is both a call for change and a careful look at how and why things are the way they are (“politicians ain’t did enough, wanna get rid of us“). There are rumors of a new Common album, Nobody Smiling, produced entirely by No I.D., as well as projects with Cocaine 80s and G.O.O.D. Music due out this year, so expect plenty more Common Sense. Stream below.
