Between 2012 and 2016, Chicago youngster Chance The Rapper went from mild mixtape-circuit renown to titanic mainstream fame. He was on Ellen all the damn time! Everyone loved him! We loved him! That came to a screeching halt in 2019,

While Chance has circled the globe in search of new perspectives, the project remains grounded in the worldview that has always defined his art: a deep, unshakable connection to Chicago and to Black culture across the diaspora.

Chance the Rapper revealed his immigration policy stance on his new album, Star Line. On the project’s song, “Drapetomania,” the Chicago artist raps in the third verse:

Chancelor Johnathan Bennett, aka Chance the Rapper, reflected on his bond with Kanye West during his appearance on the New Rory and Mal podcast on August 14, 2025.

Star Line arrives six years after his debut album, The Big Day. The 22-track project included many high-profile collaborators, including John Legend, Death Cab for Cutie, Megan Thee Stallion, Nicki Minaj, Shawn Mendes and SWV. The Big Day reached No. 2 on both the Billboard 200 and Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums.

The 17-track album boasts features from A-listers and Chicago natives, including Young Thug, Vic Mensa, Joey Badass, BJ the Chicago Kid, Jazmine Sullivan, and Jamila Woods, among others. Chance’s recently released single, “Tree,” featuring Lil Wayne and Smino, also appears on the offering.

Chance the Rapper discusses his journey as an independent artist, embracing creative control while building a connection with fans.