As well as music, Common has worked as an actor, on films such as 'Smokin' Aces' (as Sir Ivy) 'American Gangster' (as Turner Lucas), 'Wanted', and 'John Wick: Chapter 2'. He may also be seen in cameo roles in films such as 'Brown Sugar'.
His debut was the 1992 album Can I Borrow A Dollar, but he achieved little critical or commercial success until 1994's Resurrection, an instant classic. He produced several more albums, notably Like Water For Chocolate and the highly experimental Electric Circus, before releasing the Kanye West and J Dilla-produced Be in 2005, which was his first album to receive widespread mainstream appeal and radio playtime.
Common is considered a "cred" artist, which has lead him to collaborations with the likes of De La Soul, Jadakiss, T.I, Talib Kweli, The Roots, Kanye West, Lily Allen, Erykah Badu, and Fort Minor.
The 2007 album Finding Forever was produced mainly by long-time collaborator, Kanye West. Common released his eighth album Universal Mind Control in 2008, which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album but lost to the Eminem album Relapse. He released his ninth album The Dreamer/The Believer in 2011. Nobody's Smiling, his tenth album, was released in 2014. The concept of the album was inspired by his troubled hometown of Chicago.
act too
Common Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Hip-hop check it out
It's like that uh and it sounds so nice
Hip-hop, you the love of my life
We 'bout to take it to the, to the, to the, to the, to the
to the, to the, to the, to the, to the, check it out
Yo, what, and it sounds so nice
Hip-hop, you the love of my life
Hip-Hop, hip-hop love
To the top hip-hop, check it out
It's like, word up, and it sounds so nice
Hip-Hop, you the love of my life, of my life
The anticipation arose as time froze
I stared off the stage with my eyes closed and dove
Into the deep cosmos
The impact pushed back, the first five rows
But before the raw live shows
I remember I's a little snot-nosed
Rockin' Cazal goggles and Izod clothes
Learnin' the ropes of ghetto survival
Peepin' out the situation I had to slide through
Had to watch my back, my front, plus my sides too
When it came to gettin' mine I ain't tryin', to argue
Sometimes I wouldn'ta made it if it wasn't for you
Hip-hop, you the love of my life and that's true
When I was handlin' the shit I had to do
It was all for you, from the door for you
Speak through you, gettin' paper on tour for you
From the start, Thought was down by law for you
Used to hit up every corner store wall for you
We ripped shit and kept it hardcore for you
I remember late nights, steady rockin' the mic
Hip-hop you the love of my life
So tell the people like that y'all
And it sounds so nice
Hip-hop, you the love of my life
We 'bout to take it to the top
I was speakin', to my guy 'Riq and
How she was desperately seekin' to Organize in a Konfusion
Usin' no protection, told H.E.R. on Resurrection
Caught up in the Hype Williams, and lost H.E.R. direction
Gettin' ate in sections where I wouldn't eat H.E.R
An under the counter love, so silently I treat H.E.R
Her Daddy'll beat H.E.R., eyes all Puff-ed
In the mix on tape, niggas had her in the buff
When we touch, it was more than just a fuck
The Police
In H.E.R. I found peace
Like Malcolm in the East
Seen H.E.R. on the streets of New York, trickin' off
Tried to make a hit with H.E.R. but my dick went soft
Movin' weight, losin' weight
Not picky with who she choose to date
To confuse the hate with her struggle I relate
Close to thirty
Most of the niggas she know is dirty
Havin' more babies than Lauryn
She started showin' early
As of late I realized, that this is H.E.R. fate
Or destiny that brin's the best of me
It's like God is testin' me
In retrospect I see she brought life and death to me
Peace to us collectively, live and direct when we perform
It's just coffee shop chicks and white dudes
Over H.E.R. I got into it with that nigga Ice Cube
Now the fight moved to in life, makin' the right moves
Besides God and family, you my life's jewel
Like that y'all, hip-hop
It's like, word up, and it sounds nice
Hip-Hop, you the love of my life, what
'bout to take you to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the, yo
Fifth Dynamite, and it sounds so nice
Hip-Hop, you the love of my life
I'm 'bout to take you to the top, love
Hip-Hop, word up, to the top (to the top)
Hip-Hop, check it out
It's like that, what
And it sounds alright
Hey, 'cause you the love of my life
I'm 'bout to take you to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the, check it out
What, yeah and it sounds so nice
Hip-hop, you the love of my life
'bout to take you to the top love
Hip-hop, hip-hop to the top (to the top) hip-hop (hip-hop)
Fifth Dynamite, and it sounds alright
Hey, cause you the love of my life
I'm 'bout to take you to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the, check it out, yo
Ye-yeh-yo, yo, and it sounds so nice
Hip-Hop, you the love of my life
We 'bout to take you to the top love
Hip-hop, hip-hop
To the top, to the top
Hip-hop, hip-hop
Check it out, it's like, yeah, and it sounds alright
Hip-Hop, you the love of my life
We 'bout, take it to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the
To the, to the, to the, to the
In "Act Too" by Common, the rapper pays homage to hip-hop itself by using the genre as a metaphor for a partner in a romantic relationship. He begins by praising hip-hop and stating his love for it, calling it the "love of my life." He declares his loyalty to the genre, reminiscing about his youth when he first became involved in hip-hop culture. He recognizes the struggles that come with being a part of the culture but asserts that he never would have made it without hip-hop. Throughout the song, he refers to hip-hop using personal pronouns to further embody the metaphor of hip-hop as his true love.
As the song progresses, Common delves into the complexities of hip-hop culture, referencing various experiences and other influential hip-hop artists. He recognizes the ups and downs of the industry, highlighting the role of race and gender in the portrayal of hip-hop, as well as the issue of commercialization. Throughout it all, however, he remains firm in his love for the genre, claiming that he will continue to perform and create music for hip-hop.
One interesting fact about this song is that it features a sample from the 1970s song "Soul Makossa" by Manu Dibango, which was previously used in Michael Jackson's hit song "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'." Additionally, "Act Too" was produced by Questlove of the Roots and features rapping from Black Thought, another member of the band.
Line by Line Meaning
What? Hip-hop y'all, to the top y'all
I'm proclaiming the power and importance of hip-hop music, and how it has the ability to elevate and reach great heights.
Hip-hop check it out
Take a closer look at hip-hop and its impact.
It's like that uh and it sounds so nice
Hip-hop has a certain groove and appeal that is undeniably pleasing.
Hip-hop, you the love of my life
Hip-hop is the ultimate passion and devotion in my life.
We 'bout to take it to the, to the, to the, to the, to the
We are about to bring hip-hop to a whole new level of greatness.
to the, to the, to the, to the, to the, check it out
Pay close attention as we continue to elevate hip-hop's status.
I'm 'bout to take it to the top, what
I am ready to reach the highest point of success in hip-hop.
Hip-Hop, hip-hop love
There is an undeniable love and admiration for hip-hop.
To the top hip-hop, check it out
Witness the rise of hip-hop and its constant upward progression.
It's like, word up, and it sounds so nice
Hip-hop is the real deal, and it has an incredible sound.
Hip-Hop, you the love of my life, of my life
Hip-hop holds an incredibly special place in my heart and defines my life.
The anticipation arose as time froze
Excitement built up as the moment became unforgettable.
I stared off the stage with my eyes closed and dove
With complete focus and immersion, I took a leap into the performance.
Into the deep cosmos
Entering into a magical and transcendental state.
The impact pushed back, the first five rows
The energy and power of the performance was felt by everyone in the front rows.
But before the raw live shows
However, even before the intense and energetic live performances...
I remember I's a little snot-nosed
I recall being a young and inexperienced artist.
Rockin' Cazal goggles and Izod clothes
Sporting trendy and stylish fashion accessories of the time.
Learnin' the ropes of ghetto survival
Navigating and adapting to the challenges of growing up in a tough neighborhood.
Peepin' out the situation I had to slide through
Observing and assessing the circumstances I had to maneuver through.
Had to watch my back, my front, plus my sides too
Being constantly vigilant and aware of potential threats from all directions.
When it came to gettin' mine I ain't tryin', to argue
In the pursuit of success, I was focused and not interested in unnecessary conflicts.
Sometimes I wouldn'ta made it if it wasn't for you
Hip-hop played a crucial role in my journey, and without it, I may not have succeeded.
It was all for you, from the door for you
Everything I did, I did it for the love and growth of hip-hop.
Speak through you, gettin' paper on tour for you
Expressing myself and earning a living while representing hip-hop on tours.
From the start, Thought was down by law for you
From the very beginning, I was dedicated and loyal to hip-hop.
Used to hit up every corner store wall for you
I would tag and leave my mark on walls, representing hip-hop culture.
We ripped shit and kept it hardcore for you
We delivered raw and intense music, staying true to the roots of hip-hop.
I remember late nights, steady rockin' the mic
Recalling the nights spent passionately performing and entertaining the crowd.
Hip-hop you the love of my life
Acknowledging once again that hip-hop is my ultimate love and devotion.
So tell the people like that y'all
Spread the message and make it known to everyone.
And it sounds so nice
The sound and essence of hip-hop are undeniably pleasing and enjoyable.
We 'bout to take it to the top
We are ready to reach the pinnacle of success and recognition.
I was speakin', to my guy 'Riq and
I was having a conversation with my friend 'Riq,
How she was desperately seekin' to Organize in a Konfusion
Discussing the struggles and challenges faced by someone trying to find their place and purpose in confusing and chaotic environments.
Using no protection, told H.E.R. on Resurrection
Taking risks without any safety precautions, confessing it on the album 'Resurrection.'
Caught up in the Hype Williams, and lost H.E.R. direction
Being influenced by the flashy and commercial nature of the industry, causing her to lose her authenticity and true path.
Gettin' ate in sections where I wouldn't eat H.E.R
Being taken advantage of in certain areas of the industry where I refused to compromise my integrity.
An under the counter love, so silently I treat H.E.R
Expressing love and support for hip-hop discreetly, as it is often underappreciated and undervalued.
Her Daddy'll beat H.E.R., eyes all Puff-ed
Her father, representing the authorities and mainstream society, would criticize and suppress hip-hop, causing it to face obstacles and challenges.
In the mix on tape, niggas had her in the buff
In the mixtapes and underground scene, hip-hop was in its purest and truest form.
When we touch, it was more than just a fuck
When we connect and engage with hip-hop, it is a profound and meaningful experience.
The Police
The authorities and law enforcement who often targeted and oppressed hip-hop.
In H.E.R. I found peace
Hip-hop provided a sense of tranquility and solace in my life.
Like Malcolm in the East
Drawing parallels to the influential figure of Malcolm X and his impact in the East.
Seen H.E.R. on the streets of New York, trickin' off
Observing hip-hop culture thriving on the streets of New York City, making its mark and leaving an impression.
Tried to make a hit with H.E.R. but my dick went soft
Attempting to create a successful and impactful piece of hip-hop music, but failing to produce something of significance.
Movin' weight, losin' weight
Facing the challenges and struggles of navigating the industry, both financially and professionally.
Not picky with who she choose to date
Not being selective or particular about the collaborations and associations formed within the hip-hop community.
To confuse the hate with her struggle I relate
Recognizing the hardships and obstacles hip-hop faces, and empathizing with the negative perceptions and criticism it receives.
Close to thirty
Approaching the age of thirty, reflecting on the journey and growth throughout the years.
Most of the niggas she know is dirty
Many individuals involved in hip-hop have questionable motives and actions.
Having more babies than Lauryn
Producing more influential and impactful works than even the renowned Lauryn Hill.
She started showin' early
Hip-hop's influence and presence became evident and visible from its early stages.
As of late I realized, that this is H.E.R. fate
Recently, I came to the realization that hip-hop's destiny and purpose are intertwined with mine.
Or destiny that brin's the best of me
Hip-hop's influence and role in my life brings out the best version of myself.
It's like God is testin' me
The challenges and obstacles faced in hip-hop feel like tests from a higher power.
In retrospect I see she brought life and death to me
Looking back, I realize that hip-hop has had a profound impact on both my personal growth and mortality.
Peace to us collectively, live and direct when we perform
An expression of unity and harmony between hip-hop and myself, with a powerful and authentic presence during live performances.
It's just coffee shop chicks and white dudes
Referring to a more commercial and mainstream audience, stripped of the genuine hip-hop spirit.
Over H.E.R. I got into it with that nigga Ice Cube
Engaging in conflicts and disagreements with influential figures like Ice Cube over the direction and authenticity of hip-hop.
Now the fight moved to in life, makin' the right moves
Shifting the battle from controversies and disputes to making the right decisions and choices in life and career.
Besides God and family, you my life's jewel
After God and family, hip-hop holds immense value and significance in my life.
Like that y'all, hip-hop
Conclusion of the song, reaffirming the love and dedication to hip-hop.
It's like, word up, and it sounds so nice
Hip-hop deserves recognition and appreciation due to its incredible and pleasant sound.
Hey, 'cause you the love of my life
Addressing hip-hop directly, stating that it is the ultimate love and passion.
I'm 'bout to take you to the, to the, to the
I am ready to lead hip-hop to higher levels and greater achievements.
Fifth Dynamite, and it sounds so nice
Introducing myself as Fifth Dynamite, emphasizing the appealing and pleasing nature of hip-hop.
I'm 'bout to take you to the top, love
I am about to propel hip-hop to the peak of success and recognition.
Hip-Hop, word up, to the top (to the top)
Hip-hop deserves acknowledgment and praise as it rises to the summit of the music industry.
Hip-Hop, check it out
Take a closer look at hip-hop and its impact.
It's like that, what
This is how it is, no doubt about it.
And it sounds alright
Hip-hop's sound and essence are satisfying and acceptable.
Hey, 'cause you the love of my life
Reaffirming the deep love and dedication to hip-hop.
I'm 'bout to take you to the, to the, to the
I am determined to bring hip-hop to higher levels of success and recognition.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Peermusic Publishing
Written by: James Jason Poyser, Tarik L Collins, Leonard Hubbard, Lonnie Rashid Lynn, Ahmir K Thompson
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind