Chance the Rapper may have three Grammys under his belt, three previous recognisable and gospel-inspired records, and plenty of high-profile collaborations, but his new release (July 26) The Big Day is technically his first album. Prior to this, Chance has only dropped free mixtapes – 2012’s 10 Day, 2013’s Acid Rap, and 2016’s Coloring Book.
The Big Day doesn’t change the formula up too much though. There’s still plenty of features, for example (though some are maybe more surprising than others, such as Death Cab for Cutie in full on “Do You Remember”).
In fact, the features kind of reflect a dynamic through the album, which is one of past and present – “Will Smith genie, Donald Glover lion king” – or the future and nostalgia. Take “Zanies and Fools”, which features Nicki Minaj but also credits Broadway duo Rodgers and Hammerstein, or a Shawn Mendes collab shortly followed by an appearance from Randy Newman.
Other appearances include Megan Thee Stallion, on “Handsome”, Gucci Mane, and CocoRosie. It’s also a family affair, with Chance’s brother and dad getting involved.