Common and Pete Rock announce the release of their first collaboration: "The Auditorium, Vol. 1", on Loma Vista Recordings. This project brings together one of hip-hop's most eloquent MCs, Common, and one of its most acclaimed producers, turntable legend Pete Rock, to create an album that will mark the history of the genre, bridging hip-hop's golden age with its contemporary codes. Regarding their collaboration, Common expressed his admiration for Pete Rock, emphasizing that working with him rekindled his love for hip-hop and soul music, allowing him to express himself freely.