Grammy winning artist Chance the Rapper changed the industry when he nabbed three of music’s biggest awards, including Best New Artists, without selling a single physical copy of his album Coloring Book. The Chicago emcee became the first artist in history to win despite releasing a streaming-only project, a coup for the independent artist who has chosen to opt out of the traditional record label system.
While many praised Chance for his bold business decisions, it’s his commitment to the community that has really earned him praise.
After his historic Grammy win, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner, tweeted the rapper, saying the state was “proud that you’re one of our own.”
Congrats to @Chancetherapper for making history as an independent artist and taking home 3 Grammys. IL is proud that you're one of our own.
— Governor Rauner (@GovRauner) February 13, 2017
Instead of merely thanking the governor for the kind words, Chance–who’s father once served as first deputy chief of staff for Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel–used the moment as an opportunity to advocate for change.
Thank you Governor, I would love to have meeting with you this week if possible. https://t.co/wFC41NQqGq
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) February 13, 2017
Thanks to Twitter, and little Grammy magic, Chance and Gov. Rauner will be meeting later this week to discuss several issues, including education.
I'm meeting privately with the governor Wednesday. The two of us will address funding education in Chicago. I'm eager to hear his ideas.
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) February 27, 2017
The governor’s office confirmed the meeting to Pitchfork and the Chicago Tribune.
This isn’t the first time Chance used his celebrity for good. In addition to launching a nonprofit organization called SocialWorks aimed at empowering youth through the arts, education, and civic engagement, Chance has worked in his hometown on anti-violence and economic empowerment initiatives.
Chance also supports fellow Black creatives, and over the weekend, the rapper bought out a theater in one Chicago neighborhood so residents could go see Jordan Peele’s film Get Out for free.
I bought all the tickets to #GetOut at Chatham Theatre on 87th Just pull up with ID and enjoy the movie.
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) February 26, 2017
While Chance prepares for his upcoming North American spring tour, the rapper told fans he’ll be home in Chicago “for the next couple months” and has “big plans for the city.”
We can’t wait to see what he does.