By Kyra Swims
Debuting his third independent released mixtape on May 12, 2016, Chance the Rapper has once again shook the music industry. With collaborations with artist such as Lil Wayne, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, and many more, Coloring Book, in my opinion, has earned its spot as one of the best musical creations of 2016.
The mixtape features two singles that have both made it on Billboard’s top 100.
His first single titled “Angels”, featuring Saba, was released on Oct. 27, 2015. As for all of his songs and mixtapes, it was available for free on any streaming app. In his lyrics, Chance reflects on how far he has come in the music industry while also paying tribute to his Chicago roots. “Angels” has a unique sound that crosses between hip hop and neo soul. So if you’re ever looking for a song with an upbeat tempo and truthful lyrics, “Angels” has you covered.
Chance’s second single, “No Problem” was released on May 26, 2016 and features rappers Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz. The whole song is a note to all record labels telling them to back off as Chance is an independent recording artist. He isn’t signed to any record label and won’t be until his music career is over. In the song, he rants about different labels that have given him problems while he’s been trying to make his music his own way.
Coloring Book doesn’t sound like a normal everyday rap album. Chance throws in some classic hip-hop, featuring songs like, “Smoke Break”, “All We Got”, “Mixtape”, some alternative R&B, including songs like, “All Night”, “D.R.A.M. Sings Special”, “Finish line”, and even some gospel rap. You maybe wondering how one could incorporate rap with gospel, but Chance has found a way.
Gospel choirs and soulful voices are the heart and soul of Coloring Book. Since Chance grew up in a church family, he only felt it right to share his experience in the best way he could, though his music. Songs like “Blessings”, “Blessings (Reprise)”, “How Great”, and more showcase his relationship with God.
Rolling Stones has named Coloring Book,“The richest rap album of 2016.” I couldn’t agree with them more. I know Chance has and will leave an imprint on people’s lives with his music and messages. So the question is: will you take your chance with this rapper?