Nobody’s Smiling by Common

Nobody's Smiling is the tenth studio album by American hip hop recording artist Common. It was released on July 22, 2014, by Def Jam Recordings and No I.D.'s label ARTium Records. Following the release of his 2011's album The Dreamer/The Believer, Common took a hiatus from musical endeavors. In 2013, he returned to the studio and began working his tenth album and later revealed that the production, much like his previous effort, would be handled entirely by his longtime collaborator and record producer No I.D. In 2014, Common signed a recording contract with No I.D.'s ARTium Records, through Def Jam Recordings, for the distribution of the album. The title and concept of the album was inspired by the violence and high crime rate in Common's hometown of Chicago, Illinois. The album features guest appearances from G Herbo (formerly known as Lil Herb), Big Sean, Jhené Aiko, Snoh Aalegra, Dreezy, Elijah Blake, Vince Staples and Cocaine 80s. The album was supported by three singles: "Kingdom" featuring Vince Staples, "Speak My Piece" and "Diamonds" featuring Big Sean.