Released: 2000
“The Light” by Common is a soulful homage to true love, highlighting the nuances of a deep, respectful relationship and expressing the artist’s commitment towards nurturing it. Common blends his lyrical prowess, his understanding of the male-female dynamic, and his insightful introspection to craft a poetic narrative about love, respect, and mutual growth.
Starting off with “I never knew a luh, luh-luh, a love like this / Gotta be somethin for me to write this,” Common conveys the power of his feelings, so profound that they inspire his lyrics. He acknowledges past mistakes in relationships, promising not to repeat them with this special woman. He emphasizes the need for communication, mutual effort, and respect, stating, “If relationship is effort I will match your work.”
The line “Some niggaz recognize the light but they can’t handle the glare,” is a clever play on words. Here, ‘the light’ embodies the truth and depth of one’s emotions that many may recognize but can’t handle because of their inability to commit, or fear of transparency in a relationship. It could also be a reference to the special woman he admires, who possesses a ‘light’ or spirit that many cannot fully appreciate.
Common’s take on addressing his love is a significant aspect of this song – “I never call you my bitch or even my boo / There’s so much in a name and so much more in you.” He rejects derogatory or casual labels for his partner, underlining the deep respect he has for her.
The lines “It don’t take a whole day to recognize sunshine” imply love at first sight yet also emphasize the clear and powerful impact left by a beautiful soul. Common suggests that he knew right away that she was special.
Interestingly, Common also touches upon the challenge of maintaining purity before marriage, admitting, “Truthfully it’s hard tryin’ to practice abstinence”. The frankness with which he addresses this topic is resonant with the overall honesty of the song, further enhancing its authenticity.
In the last verse, he goes beyond conventional descriptions of a lover’s interests, admiring her for her eclectic taste in music, her fashion sense, and her intellect. He portrays her as an equal – someone who can suggest the beats he should rhyme to and also give him the space he needs. He ends the verse with “I’ma lead you / And whatever’s right, I’ma feed you,” promising guidance and support in their journey together.
Overall, “The Light” is a testament to Common’s lyrical genius, his respect for women, and his understanding of the complexities of love. It shines as a beacon of hope in the tumultuous landscape of relationships, offering a nuanced, mature perspective that is both touching and enlightening.
