Meaning and Lyrics of Fortunate by Common
Song Lyrics meaning of Fortunate by Common
About Common
Common—born Lonnie Rashid Lynn on March 13, 1972, in Chicago, Illinois—has been a towering figure in the hip-hop landscape since the early ’90s. Emerging from the vibrant Chicago underground scene, Common made his debut with the album Can I Borrow a Dollar? in 1992. While the album showcased his potential, it was his 1994 release, Resurrection, that cemented his place in the pantheon of great MCs. Powered by intelligent and introspective lyricism, the album’s standout track “I Used to Love H.E.R.” remains a defining moment in hip-hop history.
Common’s artistic journey has been a remarkable evolution, reflecting a balance of incisive social commentary and personal introspection. His discography is a testament to his versatility, traversing conscious hip-hop’s grassy terrains and touching mainstream peaks. Notably, his 2005 album Be, produced largely by Kanye West, saw Common hitting new commercial and critical heights. Tracks such as “The Corner” and “Go!” resonated widely, threading sharp social narratives with personal tales.
Known for his commitment to social justice, Common’s voice extends beyond the mic; he’s an activist, actor, and author. His 2014 album Nobody’s Smiling reflects the turmoil and hope from his native Chicago, offering poignant critiques wrapped in lush beats and thoughtful rhymes.
One of Common’s standout tracks is “Fortunate” from his 2008 album Universal Mind Control. With a hook that lingers in the psyche and verses that dance over the beat with elegance and verve, “Fortunate” is a testament to Common’s ability to blend soulful melodies with razor-sharp lyricism. The track’s production, infused with futuristic elements and infectious grooves, mirrors the avant-garde spirit of the album, showcasing a more experimental side of Common’s artistry.
In a career spanning over three decades, Common has remained resilient and relevant, continuously redefining the boundaries of hip-hop while staying grounded in his roots. His work remains a beacon of artistic integrity and cultural impact, making him not just a rapper, but a pivotal voice in the cultural conversation.
Meaning of Fortunate by Common
In “Fortunate”, Common taps into a deep well of gratitude, layering his introspective lyricism over a soulful backdrop. The juxtaposition of Ivan Lins’ Portuguese chorus, “A água mais pura da fonte” (“The purest water from the source”), sets a serene, almost spiritual tone, embodying themes of purity and essence that run through the entire track. Common navigates through his life’s journey, highlighting the moments and influences that have shaped him.
Chorus: Ivan Lins
The repetitive and melodic chorus, sung in Portuguese, hints at the idea of returning to one’s roots and finding purity and meaning in the simplest aspects of life. The repetition reinforces the meditative quality, inviting listeners to reflect.
Verse 1: Common
“I’m fortunate to be alive, can’t explain how I got here, but we’ve arrived” signals a sense of awe and humility. There’s a duality here—acknowledging the mysteries of life while celebrating the achievement of simply existing. Common’s appreciation for his past struggles and tribulations is palpable. The “deliverance of diligence” speaks to his belief in hard work, with “we rise” echoing this sentiment of overcoming and transcending barriers.
When he mentions friends who don’t “synthesize”, he’s valuing authenticity and realness in his relationships, critical aspects in an industry often criticized for inauthenticity. The tribute to his roots in Chicago (“born and raised in the Chi”) further cements his connection to a place known for its resilience and indomitable spirit.
Verse 2: Common
This verse delves into a more personal realm, with references to his spirituality and family ties. “Reverend Wright” evokes a clear image of his religious background, grounding his journey in community and faith. The absence of “a desperate wife” highlights a stable personal life, implying his success isn’t marred by turmoil at home—an often overlooked blessing.
The line “I study life so I can test the mic” reveals Common’s approach to his craft as an intellectual pursuit. His lyrics are born from experience and observation, not merely from abstract musings. This is evident in the “laboratory of a rapper’s story”, where he experiments and refines his art.
He recognizes the fickleness of the music industry with “a lotta fallen MCs”, showing gratitude for his perseverance and continued relevance. Common cherishes the guidance from elders and family, as “the wisdom of the elders” and his “grandmother and mother’s love” provide both moral and emotional support, illuminating the critical role of heritage and mentoring.
Verse 3: Common
Fortune takes on a familial and revolutionary aspect in this verse. “Raised ’round my uncle Steve and my uncle Charles” indicates the pivotal role of family in instilling values of belief and perseverance. The “seeds of a revolutionary” reveal his understanding of social and personal evolution, rooted in collective history and personal growth.
His journey “from the alley to the allegory” metaphorically captures his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a storyteller with a broader message. The microphone as a rod and a staff invokes biblical imagery, suggesting his role as a shepherd or leader, guiding through the power of his words.
Chorus: Ivan Lins, Pete Rock
The final chorus meshes the soulful repetition of Lins with exclamations from Pete Rock, a celebrated producer synonymous with authentic hip-hop. “Fortunate” becomes a mantra, punctuated by the collaborative energy between Common and Pete Rock. The interplay between these figures signifies the importance of community and mutual support in sustaining artistic integrity.
—
“Fortunate” is more than a song; it’s a narrative on identity, heritage, and the forces that shape our existence. Common’s verses are a masterclass in intertwining personal history with broader cultural and spiritual themes, encapsulating the essence of gratitude and survival in an often harsh world. The song serves as a testimony to the enduring impact of roots, relationships, and resilience.
Chorus: Ivan Lins
The repetitive and melodic chorus, sung in Portuguese, hints at the idea of returning to one’s roots and finding purity and meaning in the simplest aspects of life. The repetition reinforces the meditative quality, inviting listeners to reflect.
Verse 1: Common
“I’m fortunate to be alive, can’t explain how I got here, but we’ve arrived” signals a sense of awe and humility. There’s a duality here—acknowledging the mysteries of life while celebrating the achievement of simply existing. Common’s appreciation for his past struggles and tribulations is palpable. The “deliverance of diligence” speaks to his belief in hard work, with “we rise” echoing this sentiment of overcoming and transcending barriers.
When he mentions friends who don’t “synthesize”, he’s valuing authenticity and realness in his relationships, critical aspects in an industry often criticized for inauthenticity. The tribute to his roots in Chicago (“born and raised in the Chi”) further cements his connection to a place known for its resilience and indomitable spirit.
Verse 2: Common
This verse delves into a more personal realm, with references to his spirituality and family ties. “Reverend Wright” evokes a clear image of his religious background, grounding his journey in community and faith. The absence of “a desperate wife” highlights a stable personal life, implying his success isn’t marred by turmoil at home—an often overlooked blessing.
The line “I study life so I can test the mic” reveals Common’s approach to his craft as an intellectual pursuit. His lyrics are born from experience and observation, not merely from abstract musings. This is evident in the “laboratory of a rapper’s story”, where he experiments and refines his art.
He recognizes the fickleness of the music industry with “a lotta fallen MCs”, showing gratitude for his perseverance and continued relevance. Common cherishes the guidance from elders and family, as “the wisdom of the elders” and his “grandmother and mother’s love” provide both moral and emotional support, illuminating the critical role of heritage and mentoring.
Verse 3: Common
Fortune takes on a familial and revolutionary aspect in this verse. “Raised ’round my uncle Steve and my uncle Charles” indicates the pivotal role of family in instilling values of belief and perseverance. The “seeds of a revolutionary” reveal his understanding of social and personal evolution, rooted in collective history and personal growth.
His journey “from the alley to the allegory” metaphorically captures his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a storyteller with a broader message. The microphone as a rod and a staff invokes biblical imagery, suggesting his role as a shepherd or leader, guiding through the power of his words.
Chorus: Ivan Lins, Pete Rock
The final chorus meshes the soulful repetition of Lins with exclamations from Pete Rock, a celebrated producer synonymous with authentic hip-hop. “Fortunate” becomes a mantra, punctuated by the collaborative energy between Common and Pete Rock. The interplay between these figures signifies the importance of community and mutual support in sustaining artistic integrity.
—
“Fortunate” is more than a song; it’s a narrative on identity, heritage, and the forces that shape our existence. Common’s verses are a masterclass in intertwining personal history with broader cultural and spiritual themes, encapsulating the essence of gratitude and survival in an often harsh world. The song serves as a testimony to the enduring impact of roots, relationships, and resilience.
Lyrics of Fortunate by Common
Chorus: Ivan Lins
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
Verse 1: Common
I'm fortunate to be alive
Can't explain how I got here, but we've arrived
The deliverance of diligence from which we strive
It's the feelin'—it's no ceilin', is when we rise
Fortunate to have friends who don't synthesize
I keep good company—we enterprize
Had a strong gaze since infant eyes
I guess I can see the power in the prize
It's innervized by the streets identified
Other people's struggles, I don't minimize
Fortunate to be born and raised in the Chi
Salt-of-the-earth people with the bravest eye
They say, "Your guy is the truth"—I wasn't raised to lie
Fortunate to be so qué será
Every day that I get up, I trace the sky
And draw with the most high on the place that I am
And that's fortunate
Chorus: Ivan Lins
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
Verse 2: Common
Fortunate for the breath of life
And the breath of the Lord through Reverend Wright
Fortunate in my house ain't a desperate wife
I study life so I can test the mic
The laboratory of a rapper's story from the alley to the allegory
I pour a rhyme into time, let it travel for me
The one with self is the biggest battle for me
Fortunate when I was twelve, I let rap allure me
Fortunate through the wilderness, I see the trees
In the forest, there's a lotta fallen MCs
Fortunate that the God shared the lessons
He returned to the essence—I still feel his presence
Most of my bretherin are from '87
Childhood friends—I'm glad that I kept 'em
Fortunate for the wisdom of the elders
And my grandmother and mother's love that never failed us
I'm fortunate
Chorus: Ivan Lins
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
Verse 3: Common
Fortunate I was raised 'round my uncle Steve
And my uncle Charles—they both told me, "Believe"
The seeds of a revolutionary; evolutions vary
Necessary to become fruits and berries of our labor
Told ya, "Search for a savior"
Fortunate I had a chance to raise her
In the days on the unknown
I'm fortunate to come home to blocks we fought, we swung on
Fortunate the Lord put me on a path
To use the microphone for a rod and a staff
Fortunate that my heart and the beat knocks
The Windy City street ?; I'm fortunate for Pete Rock (Ayy)
I'm fortunate
Chorus: Ivan Lins, Pete Rock
A água mais pura da fonte (Ow!) (Come on)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Ayy) (Come on) (Say what?)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Ah) (Ow!)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Woo-wee!) (Yeah)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Ah)
Fortunate
—da fonte (Come on) (Yes)
I'm fortunate
—pura da fonte (Uh) (Let's go)
I'm fortunate
—da fonte (Uh) (Ow!) (Say what?)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Ow!) (Yeah) (Woo-wee!)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (We fortunate) (Uh-huh)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (What?) (Let's get it)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Uh-huh)
I'm fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Ah)
Fortunate
—da fonte (Yeah) (Yeah) (What?)
Fortunate
—da fonte
I'm fortunate
—pura da fonte (Uh) (Yeah) (Come on)
Fortunate
A água—
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
Verse 1: Common
I'm fortunate to be alive
Can't explain how I got here, but we've arrived
The deliverance of diligence from which we strive
It's the feelin'—it's no ceilin', is when we rise
Fortunate to have friends who don't synthesize
I keep good company—we enterprize
Had a strong gaze since infant eyes
I guess I can see the power in the prize
It's innervized by the streets identified
Other people's struggles, I don't minimize
Fortunate to be born and raised in the Chi
Salt-of-the-earth people with the bravest eye
They say, "Your guy is the truth"—I wasn't raised to lie
Fortunate to be so qué será
Every day that I get up, I trace the sky
And draw with the most high on the place that I am
And that's fortunate
Chorus: Ivan Lins
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
Verse 2: Common
Fortunate for the breath of life
And the breath of the Lord through Reverend Wright
Fortunate in my house ain't a desperate wife
I study life so I can test the mic
The laboratory of a rapper's story from the alley to the allegory
I pour a rhyme into time, let it travel for me
The one with self is the biggest battle for me
Fortunate when I was twelve, I let rap allure me
Fortunate through the wilderness, I see the trees
In the forest, there's a lotta fallen MCs
Fortunate that the God shared the lessons
He returned to the essence—I still feel his presence
Most of my bretherin are from '87
Childhood friends—I'm glad that I kept 'em
Fortunate for the wisdom of the elders
And my grandmother and mother's love that never failed us
I'm fortunate
Chorus: Ivan Lins
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
A água mais pura da fonte
Verse 3: Common
Fortunate I was raised 'round my uncle Steve
And my uncle Charles—they both told me, "Believe"
The seeds of a revolutionary; evolutions vary
Necessary to become fruits and berries of our labor
Told ya, "Search for a savior"
Fortunate I had a chance to raise her
In the days on the unknown
I'm fortunate to come home to blocks we fought, we swung on
Fortunate the Lord put me on a path
To use the microphone for a rod and a staff
Fortunate that my heart and the beat knocks
The Windy City street ?; I'm fortunate for Pete Rock (Ayy)
I'm fortunate
Chorus: Ivan Lins, Pete Rock
A água mais pura da fonte (Ow!) (Come on)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Ayy) (Come on) (Say what?)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Ah) (Ow!)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Woo-wee!) (Yeah)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Ah)
Fortunate
—da fonte (Come on) (Yes)
I'm fortunate
—pura da fonte (Uh) (Let's go)
I'm fortunate
—da fonte (Uh) (Ow!) (Say what?)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Ow!) (Yeah) (Woo-wee!)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (We fortunate) (Uh-huh)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (What?) (Let's get it)
Fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Uh-huh)
I'm fortunate
A água mais pura da fonte (Ah)
Fortunate
—da fonte (Yeah) (Yeah) (What?)
Fortunate
—da fonte
I'm fortunate
—pura da fonte (Uh) (Yeah) (Come on)
Fortunate
A água—
Discography Common
The Auditorium Vol. 1
Release: 2024-07-12
Label: Loma Vista Recordings
Popularity: 👏👏👏
1. Dreamin’
2. Chi-Town Do It
3. This Man
4. We’re On Our Way
5. Fortunate
6. So Many People [Feat. Bilal]
7. Wise Up
8. A GOD (There Is) [Feat. Jennifer Hudson]
9. Stellar
10. Lonesome
11. All Kind Of Ideas [Feat. Pete Rock]
12. When The Sun Shines Again [Feat. Posdnuos]
13. Everything’s So Grand [Feat. PJ]
14. Now And Then
15. Outro
Tracklist
Collapse
2. Chi-Town Do It
3. This Man
4. We’re On Our Way
5. Fortunate
6. So Many People [Feat. Bilal]
7. Wise Up
8. A GOD (There Is) [Feat. Jennifer Hudson]
9. Stellar
10. Lonesome
11. All Kind Of Ideas [Feat. Pete Rock]
12. When The Sun Shines Again [Feat. Posdnuos]
13. Everything’s So Grand [Feat. PJ]
14. Now And Then
15. Outro
MO (Soundtrack from the Netflix Series)
Release: 2022-09-09
Label: Loma Vista Recordings
Popularity: 👏
1. Parking Lot
2. Strip Club Interview
3. Mo Escapes Gunfire
4. No Tengo Palabras
5. Olive Truck Confession
6. What It Do
7. You Never Ask
8. Cash At The Border
9. Pillow Talk
10. Mo Drive
11. It’s Called Initiative
12. Schoolyard Fight
13. End Credits
Tracklist
Collapse
2. Strip Club Interview
3. Mo Escapes Gunfire
4. No Tengo Palabras
5. Olive Truck Confession
6. What It Do
7. You Never Ask
8. Cash At The Border
9. Pillow Talk
10. Mo Drive
11. It’s Called Initiative
12. Schoolyard Fight
13. End Credits
A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 1 & 2
Release: 2021-09-17
Label: Loma Vista Recordings
Popularity: 👏
1. (A Beautiful Revolution) Intro [Feat. Jessica Care Moore]
2. Fallin’
3. Say Peace [Feat. Black Thought]
4. What Do You Say (Move It Baby)
5. Courageous [Feat. Stevie Wonder]
6. A Place In This World
7. A Riot In My Mind [Feat. Lenny Kravitz & Chuck D]
8. Don’t Forget Who You Are
9. (A Beautiful Revolution) Outro [Feat. Morgan Parker]
10. Intro (Push Out The Noise) [Feat. Jessica Care Moore]
11. A Beautiful Chicago Kid
12. When We Move [Feat. Black Thought & Seun Kuti]
13. Set It Free
14. Majesty (Where We Gonna Take It)
15. Poetry [Feat. Marcus King & Isaiah Sharkey]
16. Saving Grace [Feat. Brittany Howard]
17. Star Of The Gang
18. Imagine
19. Get It Right
20. OUTRO (Exclamation Point) [Feat. Morgan Parker]
Tracklist
Collapse
2. Fallin’
3. Say Peace [Feat. Black Thought]
4. What Do You Say (Move It Baby)
5. Courageous [Feat. Stevie Wonder]
6. A Place In This World
7. A Riot In My Mind [Feat. Lenny Kravitz & Chuck D]
8. Don’t Forget Who You Are
9. (A Beautiful Revolution) Outro [Feat. Morgan Parker]
10. Intro (Push Out The Noise) [Feat. Jessica Care Moore]
11. A Beautiful Chicago Kid
12. When We Move [Feat. Black Thought & Seun Kuti]
13. Set It Free
14. Majesty (Where We Gonna Take It)
15. Poetry [Feat. Marcus King & Isaiah Sharkey]
16. Saving Grace [Feat. Brittany Howard]
17. Star Of The Gang
18. Imagine
19. Get It Right
20. OUTRO (Exclamation Point) [Feat. Morgan Parker]
Upcoming Events for Common
Common and Pete Rock: The Auditorium Tour
Price Range: $35 – 35
Date: 2024-09-10
Location: The Fillmore Charlotte
Common and Pete Rock: The Auditorium Tour
Price Range: $45 – 99.5
Date: 2024-09-06
Location: The Echo Lounge & Music Hall
Common and Pete Rock: The Auditorium Tour
Price Range: $37.5 – 37.5
Date: 2024-09-14
Location: Baltimore Soundstage
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