The 59th Annual Grammy Awards were filled with amazing fashion, performances and we finally got to see artist Chance The Rapper receive recognition for his talent. Chance, born Chancellor Bennett, was able to leave that night with two Grammy’s in hand–one Grammy for best new artist and the other for best rap album.
As a fan I was screaming at the top of my lungs filled with joy and pride for his accomplishments. After his winnings Chance took the stage with Kirk Franklin, Tamela Mann and a gospel choir to perform the gospel song “ How Great” and “All We Got” from his sophomore album Coloring Book. After the Grammy’s everyone who did not know who Chance The Rapper was began to look into his background and found that he is no newbie to this music game.
The Chicago born rapper is part of the collective Save Money – which includes rapper Vic Mensa. He is also the lead vocalist of the band The Social Experiment. Chance ventured off and perused his solo career wile remaining an active member of his collectives.
He made his debut as an artist in 2012 with his 10 Day mixtape. This mixtape was created in his home during a 10 day suspension in his senior year of high school. This introduced the world to his unconventional adlibs and undoubted energy. It caught the attention of many in the music industry including Childish Gambino who took Chance on tour with him as an opening act.
Chance’s mixtape Acid Rap was release the following year making it clear to everyone that he was making his mark and he’s here to stay. The mixtape consisted of soulful beats and radiant rhymes which helped to communicate Chance’s message of love and black boy joy. Although Chance had nothing but mixtapes in his discography he was popular enough to be featured in Lallapaloosa 2013.
In 2016 Chance surprised everyone with an unannounced release of his album called Coloring Book. This album debut at number eight on the Billboard 200 chart. Coloring Book featured artist from Justin Bieber to 2 Chainz and Lil’ Wayne on the very popular single “No Problem”.
As an independent artist it is hard to establish yourself in the music industry and gain respect from your peers; but chance has made it look so effortless. Through many attempts of record labels to sign Chance to their company he has remained consistent in refusing and has continued to stay true to his path. His fans appreciate his authenticity and find it honorable that Chance has remained the same Channo from the 79.
As the year progresses more success awaits the young rapper. He is still continuing to make new music and inspire others. His upcoming spring tour begins April 24th in San Diageo, California and he will be making stops in many towns like Denver, Atlanta and Dover where I will be seeing him in June. I am so excited to see him live and finally see his stage prescience in person I am sure I will not be disappointed because Chance brings an energy to the stage that is like no other. So to all the Chance doubters out there YOU DON’T WANT ZERO PROBLEMS BIG FELLA!!
