Southern Plug Magazine: Leaders of the New School 2017 Volume 2 Issue 1 A | Page 25

Despite his evasion of stylistic pigeonholing and no label
affiliation -- not even a major-bankrolled vanity imprint --
Chance the Rapper became one of the most significant artists to
infiltrate the mainstream during the 2010s. Through several
mixtapes, his output underwent a rapid evolution as he
celebrated life and faith, mourned personal loss, and hit upon
lighter everyday experiences with high-aptitude wordplay
served with a variety of mostly genial styles. All the while, the
productions that supported the verses and hooks included
various regional contemporary rap production styles, and among
other genres synthesized elements of gospel, jazz, and soul.
Previously unthinkable achievements, such as winning a Grammy
Award for Best Rap Album with a mixtape available only on
streaming platforms, prompted headlines, yet they didn't
overshadow the creative accomplishments that vaulted him onto
the top tier. A native of Chicago's West Chatham
neighborhood, Chancelor Bennett made his mixtape debut in
April 2012 with 10 Day, a wide-ranging effort recorded during
and partly inspired by a high school suspension of the same
duration. Featuring beats from Flying Lotus, Chuck Inglish,
and Lex Luger, it was was preceded by advance notice from
Complex and followed by praise from Forbes. One of Bennett's
early supporters was Childish Gambino, who took him on as
opener for a U.S. tour. Increasing popularity didn't
prevent Bennett from visiting local schools, deepening a lasting
humanitarian connection with his community. Second ape Acid
Rap, Bennett's first release to register on Billboard's album
charts, arrived in April 2013 and intensified efforts from major
labels who wanted to sign the artist, only to be turned down.
Bennett's 2016 output as a headliner and featured artist led to
seven Grammy nominations. He took the award for Best New
Artist, Coloring Book won Best Rap Album, and Best Rap
Performance went to him, Lil Wayne, and 2 Chainz for "No
Problem." During the first half of 2017, Bennett lengthened his
discography of featured appearances through tracks by
brother Taylor Bennett and Brian Fresco, as well as DJ Khaled,
whose "I'm the One" topped the Billboard Hot 100.