Common reflects on recording "Be"

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

With his performance at the 2011 Rock the Bells Festival, Common will be performing his 2005 album, Be. The album was considered by many as one of the best hip hop albums of the year. Having been away from the game for a while, Be was a great comeback for Common.

In 2004, Common teamed up with Kanye West, joining his newly-established G.O.O.D. Music. Immediately, the two began working on the album. Common said their work led to the first song from the album, "The Food." Even before he was given a budget, Common began recording Be.

Upon finally recording music, Kanye West played a beat he had for another artist. Common liked the beat so much Kanye West decided to give it to him. This beat ended up being the instrumental to "The Food."