Give it a CHANCE (the Rapper)

Why I like (love) Chance the Rapper...

"Call me Mr, Mufasa, I mastered stampedes" -Chance, Blessings   

This is my idea of a provocative title. I hope you chose to click this blog out of the many wonderful options available to you because you were curious about Chance. While it may be a unique subject title in the grand scheme of Capitol Hill stories, those of us from Chicago know that admiration for Chance the Rapper just feels right. Ever heard of Chance the Rapper? Chancellor Bennet is a 23 year old, self-made rapper from Chicago and also a former high school classmate of mine (go, Eagles!). Chance made the media rounds earlier this year when he became the first independent artist,  unsigned to a recording label,  to win three Grammy awards.

I came upon this topic wanting my blog posts to truly reflect my mental space each week. It all started when I watched the BET awards a few weeks back in our apartment at the United Methodist building (this may have been the first time those two things have been mentioned together before). The awards show with all of its star-studded attendees, hosts, and talented performers took a break from the acceptance speeches and took a more sobering turn. There is a distinguished  recognition given called the Humanitarian Award which honors individuals who have used their influence to do good on a scale that matches their star power. While my Instagram story had already been filled with video clips singing Chances’ praises from the two awards he had already won that night, it was no surprise to me whose name would be called when another particularly special Chicagoan came on the screen.

Michelle Obama, our “forever First Lady” as she was called, entered the nights show with a video speaking to the power of Chances’ contributions, both culturally and monetarily, to the youth of the City so often plagued with criticism and  low expectations. As Chancelor Bennet’s name was called and the crowd went wild, I felt like a part of that moment- like his victory was my victory too. In an effort to articulate that, here are my reasons for liking/loving Chance the Rapper:

   

1. He honors his roots/heritage
2. He is unashamedly, authentically himself
3. He does not compromise his artistry and personal standard for excellence as defined by what he envisions being possible for himself and his accompanying artists
4. He is humble but not hesitant to use his platform    

While it can be powerful to build off of momentum others have established to create positive change, it is especially admirable for someone to be a pioneer of positive civic/political engagement to a whole new generation of people. And that's just it. What makes mundane roles truly magical is the purpose behind the passion. Sure, there are many proud products of Chicago and urban America at that, to inspire young people and re-energize older folks who could use some hope. But what makes people truly feel the power behind the actions of someone like Chance, and is causing a stir like no other, is the God-given purpose that he feels compelled to pursue at this point in his life through his unique position. To that, I extend my thanks and respect for the work that Chance has only just begun by contributing his own unique voice in the places and spaces he finds himself conquering. Especially in a time where there seems to be so much to fix, and in a place where people are tired of working for justice; Chance brings a fresh optimism to the work of community building. That is something worth giving a chance.

In power,

Nura Esther Zaki

Blog Post #7

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As a 2017 EYA Intern, Nura is working with The Democracy Initiative this Summer in the fields of Grassroots Mobilizing and Communications.