On July 22, 2014, American hip-hop artist Common released his tenth studio album, Nobody’s Smiling, through Def Jam Recordings and No I.D.’s ARTium Records. This album marked Common’s return to music after a hiatus following his 2011 album, The Dreamer/The Believer.
Recorded between 2013 and 2014, Nobody’s Smiling features a total length of 41:32 and is entirely produced by Common’s longtime collaborator, No I.D., who also served as an executive producer along with Common himself and Mike Chavez. The album’s title and concept draw inspiration from the violence and high crime rate in Common’s hometown of Chicago, Illinois, reflecting the social issues prevalent in the community.
The album features a variety of guest appearances from artists such as G Herbo (formerly known as Lil Herb), Big Sean, Jhené Aiko, Snoh Aalegra, Dreezy, Elijah Blake, Vince Staples, and Cocaine 80s. This diverse lineup enhances the album’s exploration of contemporary themes and struggles.
Nobody’s Smiling was supported by three singles: “Kingdom,” featuring Vince Staples, released on May 27, 2014; “Speak My Piece,” released on June 30, 2014; and “Diamonds,” featuring Big Sean, released on July 8, 2014. The album received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and production quality, further solidifying Common’s status as a prominent voice in hip-hop.
With its poignant themes and powerful collaborations, Nobody’s Smiling stands as a significant entry in Common’s discography, addressing important societal issues while showcasing his artistic evolution. For more insights and updates on significant moments in hip-hop history, be sure to check out HipHopRaisedMeTheBlog.com!
