We joined Oscar, Golden Globe, Emmy, and Grammy-winning cultural icon, Common for a intimate concert and a theatrical reading from his new memoir, Let Love Have the Last Word. His memoir explores love as an action and a tool for self-betterment, and healing humanity. It was a beautiful expression of art, words, & song which he performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. He continues to break down barriers with a multitude of diverse roles and critically acclaimed music.
This personal memoir explores Common’s childhood growing up in Chicago, his relationship with his 22-year-old daughter, his journey into therapy and practicing love in every situation; which is the question Common asked himself while writing this book.
Once Common took the stage everyone cheered, he looked amazing! In his eyes you could see the passion and eagerness to share something euphoric with us and we were ready to receive it. He began by reading a few excerpts from his book. He said he wrote the book by tapping into his own humanity, using writing as a way to get himself through the constant barrage of bad news and politics. Listening to Common read from his book, mixed with spoken word and few rap lyrics was a mind-blowing experience!
Just when I thought the evening could not have gotten any better, the dark backdrop he stood in front of lifted and behind it was a full band ready to rock the house. He performed some of his top hits with a few special guests. The two performances that stood out the most were the August Greene track entitled “Practice” with Maimouna Youssef aka Mumu Fresh and “Glory” also with the help of Mumu.
Both of those performances were electrifying! You could tell that Mumu Fresh was really feeling the spirit and vibe from the music that evening, she was glowing! Common was also feeling that same vibe because he ended his performance of “Glory” in such a powerful way. One clenched fist raised up in the air to express unity, strength, defiance and resistance.
Common has been deeply engaged in social justice and advocacy work around mass incarceration, mental health and voting. After the success and impact of his Imagine Justice concert in 2017 and his Hope & Redemption Tour to eight different prisons, Common launched Imagine Justice as a new nonprofit in 2018. Centered at the intersection of art and activism, Imagine Justice is dedicated to leveraging the power of art to advocate for communities around the country, to fight for justice and equality, and to stand united against injustice wherever it appears.
Thank you again to Common for bringing us all together for such a powerful night. Congratulations on the new memoir: Let Love Have The Last Word. BRAVO!
Insta: @Common
Naomi is a stylish, adventurous traveler. She’s a bit of a daredevil that loves excursions. Those that know her, call her a shoe connoisseur. She is also obsessed with music and has a playlist for just about any mood. She’s a foodie that loves a good vegetarian/vegan spot. Want to know where she is headed next… stay tuned to find out!
