At his best, Common is equal parts contemplative and aspirational, collapsing the distance between the man who has a dream and the seasoned skeptic who’s not quite wise enough to stop having them. That very human perspective, along with the diversified skillset and sensibilities to distill it, makes Common one of the most potent storytellers rap has ever seen.
He showcases that talent once again on The Auditorium Vol. 1, a new joint album he’s just released with Pete Rock. Carved from lush beats and accessible, but worldly poetry, it stands as a reminder of Common’s mastery, and all that he’s accomplished. To celebrate it, Okayplayer ranks Common’s five best albums.
Tags:
Best guide to hip hop, soul, reggae concerts & events in San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles & New York City + music, videos, radio and more
J Boog
Tuesday, June 16 @ UC Theater, Berkeley
DaBoyDame w/ Keyshia Cole, Plies +more
Friday, June 19 @ Fox Theater, Oakland
Buju Banton & Stephen Marley
Saturday, June 20 @ Fox Theater, Oakland
Kev Choice Ensemble
Friday, June 26 @ Yoshi's, Oakland
Khalid
Friday, June 26 @ Greek Theatre, Berkeley
Thee Sacred Souls
Saturday, Aug 15 @ Greek Theatre, Berkeley
Jungle
Wednesday, Oct 7 @ Greek Theatre, Berkeley
© 2026 Created by Ren the Vinyl Archaeologist.
Powered by