Common has a new recording home. The Chi-town vet inked a deal with the Def Jam and will be releasing his first album with the label, Nobody Smiling, on July 22. Nobody Smiling reconnects Common with longtime friend No I.D. who produced his first three albums. No I.D., the EVP/co-head of A&R for Def Jam, signed Common to his personal imprint under Def Jam, Atrium. He shared his thoughts on Common joining the Def Jam roster.
“Common and I have a long history of making great music together,” said No I.D. in a statement “His rich legacy and robust talent are perfect additions to the Def Jam family. It’s particularly significant that he is coming uner our roof for his 10th album as a matured artist and cultural ambassador. Its a tremendous boost to the spirit of Def Jam as well as the world of hip hop.”
The rapper/actor also spoke on his excitement for the new deal.
“I’m honored to team up with No I.D. and be a part of the Artium and Def Jam family. Creating this album and signing to Def Jam feels like a new beginning for me,” Common explained his excitement for the new partnership through a statement. “I feel like a new artist because I created this album with the purpose to give back to my city and to the culture of hip hop. Def Jam is part of the foundation of hip hop and being able to work with No I.D. was returning to my foundation now with new energy and new hunger.”