Common rose to fame as a rapper in the 1990s, and his childhood and teenage years clearly influenced his music. He’s also found success as an actor, and now as a writer – his new memoir, “One Day It’ll All Make Sense,” which shares the title of his 1997 album, came out yesterday. Common and his mother, Dr. Mahalia Hines, discuss the book, the impact of racism and the death of Emmett Til on Common’s music, and why he went into rap.
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!