Meaning and Lyrics 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.