This past Sunday, rapper, Common, originally known as Common Sense, won a Golden Globe award for his original song he created for the movie Selma.

While he is also known for his acting prowess, Common is most notably recognized as an influential figure in rap’s underground scene. While commercial gangsta rap was becoming popular and other forms of rap were vanishing, Common managed to keep the style of jazz-rap alive.

Lonnie Rashied Lynn was born on March 13, 1972. His original claim to fame came to him when he won The Source magazine’s unsigned Hype contest. He soon after, released his first single, “Take It EZ.” After several hit songs, Common landed a major-label deal with MCA.  His music career only sky rocketed from there and he started to collaborate with other music artists, such as Mary J. Blige, Kanye West, MC Lyte and Cee-Lo.

During his acceptance speech for best original song for his and John Legend’s original song “Glory,” he notably referenced several recent controversial events.

“As I got to know the people of the Civil Rights Movement, I realized I am the hopeful black woman who was denied her right to vote,” said common. “I am the caring white supporter who was killed on the front lines of freedom. I am the unarmed black kid who maybe needed a hand but instead was given a bullet. I am the two fallen police officers, murdered in the line of duty. ‘Selma’ has awakened my humanity.”

This was Common’s second Golden Globe award.

Learn more:
Think Common - Common's official website
Common's IMDB profile