Common has recruited Jhené Aiko for his 10th album, Nobody’s Smiling, which arrives July 22 via Def Jam. The rapper expressed his appreciation for the R&B newcomer’s artistry and her distinctive vocal ability.
“Jhené Aiko is an artist that I truly respect,” said Common during an interview with Rap-Up TV. “I think she has a unique voice in music, in culture. When I say unique voice, not only is it her singing voice, but her perspective, who she is, what she offers to the world is something that’s very, very special. It’s a soul to it. It’s a spirit to it.”
He revealed that together they collaborated on a “fresh” song called “Blak Majik.” He explained, “It’s also a feel-good, fun song, but it’s hard, it’s rough. It’s something special about that song too.”
The concept-driven project, which is inspired by the violence in his hometown of Chicago, includes contributions from Cocaine 80s, Elijah Blake and Vince Staples, and production from No I.D.
Follow @ABCNewsRadio
Copyright 2014 ABC News Radio