The Chicago rapper rallies Robert Glasper, Karriem Riggins, Black Thought and PJ Morton for his new album, A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1.
Common is bookending the Trump administration with his third album of the last four years.
Today, the Chicago rapper announced his 13th studio album, A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1 will arrive this Friday, October 30th. The reveal is paired with the fiery, afro-funk-fueled single, “Say Peace,” featuring a steel-toed verse from Black Thought. According to Rolling Stone, the album was recorded with a live band, featuring Robert Glasper on keys, Karriem Riggins on drums, and Burniss Travis on bass. It also features a contribution from PJ Morton. In a statement, Common told Rolling Stone, A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1 “is affirmation. It’s recognition. It’s elevation. It’s music to go with a movement. Because the truth is, there is still so much work to do. Regardless of the outcome of the election, we need to make sure things do not return to the status quo.”
A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1, in title alone, suggests at least a sequel. But it follows 2019’s Let Love, which was accompanied by (and shared a name with) the rapper’s memoir. It featured appearances from Daniel Caesar, Swizz Beatz, Jill Scott, and BJ The Chicago Kid amongst others, with Riggins handling the majority of the production save for one unearthed J Dilla rarity.
Hear Common and trade bars with Black Thought on the new song, “Say Peace,” below. You can also catch a glimpse at another song from the album, “Place in This World,” in new ad spot for Michelle Obama’s “When We All Vote” campaign. Scroll on for the full A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1 tracklist and hold tight for the album to drop this Friday.
A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1 Tracklist:
1 (A Beautiful Revolution) Intro
2 Fallin’
3 Say Peace
4 What Do You Say (Move It Baby)
5 Courageous
6 A Place In This World
7 A Riot In My Mind
8 Don’t Forget Who You Are
9 (A Beautiful Revolution) Outro