As of June 16, 2016, the Recording Academy announced that streaming-only music will be taken into consideration for the for the upcoming 2017 Grammy Awards. For artists like Chance the Rapper, this means he will finally be able to receive a nomination.
Chance the Rapper started his music career after a 10-day suspension from his high school because he was in possession of marijuana. He took inspiration for his first mixtape during that suspension and subsequently named it "10-Day". It was released in April of 2012 and has been downloaded over 300,000 times since then. Chance grabbed the attention of rapper Childish Gambino, and he then toured with him as Gambino's opening act. A year later in April 2013, Chance released his second mixtape called "Acid Rap". "Acid Rap" was praised by fans and critics. Chance was able to go on and perform at music festivals like Lollapalooza. His popularity grew tremendously and he began to start to work alongside other famous rappers and musicians.
Chance the Rapper teamed up with The Social Experiment and Donnie the Trumpet to create the album "Surf". He also worked alongside Kanye West, Lil B, and many others. Chance's popularity skyrocketed and he finally released his newest mixtape "Coloring Book" on May 12, 2016.
Many people have been judgemental towards Chance's reaction to his Grammy eligibility. He has posted advertisements and endlessly talked about it on Twitter. But why shouldn't he? He is one of the best rappers of this generation and he is proud of his work. Why shouldn't he be taken into consideration for an award? He isn't the only artist with consideration ad's, but the media has been portraying it as so. He wants to make a difference in this world and has the power to do so.
Some rappers are out there accepting awards and talking about how they are going to run for president in 2020, while Chance is getting young adults to register to vote while he is on tour. He is doing everything in his power to make this world a positive place. His music is just the tip of the iceberg.
Chance has taken the Hip Hop world by storm and should be recognized. His music moves people and almost everyone can relate to it. He is an inspiration. He produces music that actually has meaning. He refers to his own life and experiences and creates some of the best beats and lyrics in the industry. He uses his fame to create a positive difference in the world. Chance the Rapper deserves a Grammy.
