Common's sixth studio album Be was released on May 24, 2005, through GOOD Music and Geffen Records. This double LP black vinyl reissue captures the Chicago MC's triumphant return to form following the experimental Electric Circus. The album was primarily and executively produced by Kanye West, with additional production from J Dilla, creating a cohesive sonic vision rooted in soul and jazz samples. The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 with first-week sales of 185,000 copies and was certified platinum by the RIAA in 2025. Be received four Grammy nominations, including Best Rap Album.
The album's eleven tracks feature singles "The Corner," "Go!," and "Testify", blending conscious hip hop with soulful production. "The Corner" marked the first appearance by The Last Poets on an official hip-hop album, bringing political consciousness to Common's vivid street narratives. "Go!" features John Mayer and became the album's highest charting single, showcasing Common's ability to balance sensuality with lyrical sophistication. "Testify" delivers intricate storytelling built around a vocal loop from Honey Cone's "Innocent Til Proven Guilty." "Love Is..." and "It's Your World (Part 1 & 2)" were produced by J Dilla, representing some of the legendary producer's final work before his 2006 passing.
This double LP pressing spreads the album's 40-minute runtime across four sides, rooting the sound in '70s soul and soul-jazz with productions that are never monotonous or dull. West's sample choices and arrangement skills shine throughout, from the piano-driven "Go!" to the contemplative title track intro. The album explores themes of urban survival, love, and community through Common's observational lens, balancing political commentary with personal reflection. This reissue preserves the album's tightly constructed sequencing and organic warmth, capturing a creative peak for both Common and West.
- Format: Black Vinyl 2 LP
- Standout tracks: "The Corner," "Go!," "Testify"
- Pressing details: Double album
- Genre/style: Conscious Hip Hop, Jazz Rap, Soul, Hip Hop
- UPC: 602498819029
This pressing documents the powerful collaboration between Common, Kanye West, and J Dilla, delivering one of the 2000s' most critically acclaimed hip-hop albums with soul-drenched production and sharp social commentary.
* The Spotify track list may not exactly represent the tracks and audio of this LP edition.
Track List:
Side A:
- Be (Intro)
- The Corner (Feat. The Last Poets)
- Go!
Side B:
- Faithful
- Testify
- Love Is...
Side C:
- Chi City
- The Food (Live)
- Real People
Side D:
- They Say (Feat. John Legend & Kanye West)
- It's Your World (Part 1 & 2)