Chance the Rapper, a 23-year-old an up and coming artist from Chicago recently released his album entitled 'Coloring Book'. It has been topping the charts all summer long. Artistry and style, although they stand out on this particular work, aren't the only factors that have made it a talking point amongst music lovers and his fans alike. The album broke several new boundaries in terms of music technology and religion that is causing buzz in the music industry.
Not only was the album not produced and affiliated with any record label, but it did what no other artist had done before. Chance made his work available to his fans through online music streaming services like Apple Music and Spotify, whereas most artists rely on selling copies and downloads. This slowly emerging technique of releasing music landed 'Coloring Book' on the Billboard Top 200, which has never been done before by a streaming-exclusive album. Taking this approach, Chance made his work more widely available and affordable for those who support him.
Another risk Chance took with this album was the incorporation of religious aspects into his songs, eradicating secular music boundaries. Although the album contains hip hop vibes, there are heavily gospel-influenced tracks. One song in particular entitled "How Great" is a cover of a popular Christian gospel song by Chris Tomlin. There are also songs such as 'Finish Line' and 'Blessings' that feature the Chicago Children's Choir singing. Chance has received praise for his ability to publicly proclaim his religion in his music, despite the religious weariness that often comes along with his genre.
Chance also gets up close and personal, singing about his childhood experiences and racial struggles. Growing up in the Southside of Chicago, he shouts out his city and represents them well. In 'Summer Friends,' Chance recounts his youngest memories and gives listeners a detailed idea of what it was like for him. This type of venerability in his rhymes distinguishes him from other rappers in his field. The 'real life' appeal that he portrays is what connects him to his fans. The diversity of the album has also contributed to its recent success. From soul to street, to gospel, there is a song for every type of listener. Every track is unique and features other popular artists like Kanye, Future, Justin Bieber, Young Thug, and Lil Wayne. Chance truly did color outside the lines of 'Coloring Book.'