Common's critically acclaimed album Be, originally released in 2005, celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025. To commemorate this milestone, a deluxe edition of the album was released on May 23, 2025, featuring new-to-streaming remixes and instrumental tracks.
Co-produced by Kanye West and J Dilla, Be is considered a pivotal album in Common's discography, blending soul-forward sounds with introspective raps. The album, which peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, marked a return to Common's roots after his experimental album, Electric Circus.
The 20th-anniversary edition offers fans a chance to revisit this classic album with a fresh perspective, including 11 new bonus tracks. Be remains a significant work, reflecting a moment of synergy between Common and Kanye West, solidifying its place as a landmark in hip-hop history.