February 13, 2014
Volume 36, Issue 21
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TheMetropolitan Common: Greatness is contagious MetroSpective By J.R. Johnson gjohns93@msudenver.edu Since the early ’90s, hip-hop legend Common has spread an uplifting message of solidarity and positivity through his music. The Grammy Award-winning musician visited Auraria with a similar message of motivation Feb. 5 in conjunction with Auraria’s recognition of Black History Month. Opening for Common’s talk at the Tivoli Turnhalle was artist and former MSU Denver student, DJ Cavem, who hyped up the crowd with his performance of original music and a quick display of his skills on the turntables. When Common took the stage, the crowd’s excitement was undeniable, as he was greeted with a warm welcome. Common’s presentation resembled one of his concerts, starting with a freestyle. But music wasn’t the only reason Common came to visit. “When I knew I was coming to Denver— which is a city that is very special to me because my father and brother live out here—I knew I was going to have the opportunity to speak to you all—your beautiful minds,” he said. “I knew I had to say something that you could walk away with that would mean something.” Eyes were locked on the rapper as he spoke. “The word that came to mind when I was coming to this (campus) was ‘greatness,’” he said. Cheers and gestures of agreement were peppered in after every other word as he revealed stories. Tales about his days in Chicago, joking around in math class or trying to keep up with the stars in his Biddy Basketball league, highlighted the virtue in youthful failure. He didn’t shy away from discussing recent disappointments, such as losing out on awards and missing out on acting roles. What kept him going has been the idea of being better than he thought he could be—that meant being great. “When you think about greatness, what really is greatness? Well, in the ‘Common Dictionary of Greatness,’ greatness is using your gifts to perform at the highest level, and by doing so you inspire others to reach their full potential,” he said. Common’s words stirred the crowd when he shared the certainty he had in each and everyone. Belief in oneself is key, he reminded the audience, noting his story about leaving college to pursue hip-hop. Everyone, thought it would be an uphill battle. Still, his career proves he refused to quit. “Only you know your path,” he concluded. “You know in your heart who you are and what you want to accomplish, what your gifts are, what your passion is. It’s up to you to find your purpose.” Artist and musician Common motivates the crowd with a smile on his face Feb. 5 at the Tivoli Turnhalle. Photo by Alyson McClaran • amcclara@msudenver.edu