With nine albums under his belt, Common can easily be considered one of the veteran hip-hop artists to come out of the Chicago area. His debut LP, 'Can I Borrow a Dollar?' caused a buzz around the underground rap scene in the '90s. However, it wasn't until he released 'Like Water for Chocolate' in 2000, that this Windy City artist received more mainstream fame and was certified gold.

Common received two Grammys -- Best R&B Song for his duet with Erykah Badu, 'Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip-Hop)' in 2003, as well as Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group, for 'Southside,' his collaboration with Kanye West.

Music aside, Common also proved he had acting chops and has had a variety of major and minor roles in films including 'American Gangster,' 'Wanted, 'Smokin' Aces' and 'Date Night.' The rap star is reportedly working on a new material that will release later this year.

Watch Common's 'The Light' Video

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