It samples "Open Your Eyes" as performed by Bobby Caldwell and the drums from "You're Gettin' a Little Too Smart" by the Detroit Emeralds.

13 on the Hot Rap Singles chart, a feat that Common had previously surpassed.

AllMusic writer Steve Huey said that "The Light" as well as "The 6th Sense" are "quintessential Common, uplifting and thoughtful [songs that] helped bring him a whole new audience.

"[4] Cynthia Fuchs of PopMatters described it as a "charming, tender, and undeniably soulful declaration of affection and respect.

"[3] The music video (directed by Nzingha Stewart) features Common, Erykah Badu and "recognizable sensual delights" including "a homemade Minnie Riperton cassette, a mango, a pink lava lamp [and] a deeply green water-beaded leaf.