Chance the Rapper and Kirsten Corley tied the knot on March 9, 2019. Though they make a beautiful couple, their union has been called into question on more than one occasion. In late 2022, the couple was in the headlines as social media sleuths uncovered an NSFW video involving a transgender person in the “Cocoa Butter Kisses” hitmaker’s likes. Corley clapped back at trolls in wake of that drama, and around the same time the recording artist confirmed that he had to put in serious work to keep his marriage strong during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite all the praise the Rapper has given his other half in his music through the years, his actions in real-time have sometimes suggested he still likes to be free and have fun. While at Carnival in 2023, a video of the 30-year-old being twerked on by a bodacious woman while his wife was nowhere to be seen went viral. This caused tensions to rise between them, and people began speculating that trouble was afoot in paradise. It seems they might’ve been right, as Corley confirmed her split from Chance on Wednesday (April 3) via Instagram.
Kirsten Corley Confirms Her Split From Chance the Rapper
@kirstencorleybennett/Instagram Story
“After a period of separation, the two of us have arrived at a decision to part ways,” the mother of two wrote. “We came to this decision amicably and with gratitude for the time we spent together. God has blessed us with two beautiful daughters who we will continue to raise together. We kindly ask for privacy and respect as we navigate this transition. Thank you,” Corley’s statement concluded.
It seems Chance the Rapper’s life is all about change lately, and the themes are even coming through in his music. In a snippet shared online last month, the 30-year-old speaks about Americans starting a revolution rather than voting in the upcoming election. Read all about that at the link below, and let us know if you’re surprised about Kirsten Corley’s divorce announcement in the comments.
SocialWorks, the youth empowerment charity founded by Chance the Rapper, is proud to announce a special benefit concert headlined by Chance himself. This one-night-only event, set to take place on April 13th at the historic Ramova Theater in Chicago, promises an unforgettable evening of music, celebration, and philanthropy. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference in the lives of Chicago’s youth while celebrating the birthday of one of the city’s most beloved artists.
This highly anticipated event promises an evening of exceptional entertainment while championing a noble cause. With Chance the Rapper headlining and DJ Oreo opening, attendees can expect an immersive musical experience that reflects the spirit of giving back to the community.
In addition to the main event, an exclusive after-party will be hosted, featuring DJ sets from Chance himself and his friends. This post-concert celebration offers a unique opportunity for guests to continue the festivities while mingling with the artists and fellow supporters of SocialWorks’ mission.
Rappers’ love for manga runs deep. So when news that Akira Toriyama, the creator of the beloved series Dragon Ball, died was released online, it shocked the music world. Since the announcement back on March 7, fans around the globe have poured out their love for Toriyama’s work online.
A few of those lifelong supporters included rappers Chance The Rapper and Denzel Curry. The news left The Voice judge and “Yah Know” rapper lost for words. In a gallery uploaded to his official Instagram page, the rapper couldn’t string together a message profound enough to express his sorrow. Instead, he used an array of tearful video clips blended with a few screenshots of the series’ many forms (video games, TV shows, and comics) to speak for him. Within the assortment, Chance included an image of the late visual artist.
On the other hand, Curry penned a lengthy note in his Instagram Stories (captured by HipHopDX, a fellow subsidiary of Warner Music Group) to pay tribute to the Manga legend.
“Akira Toriyama’s work has inspired me to be the best artist I can be,” he wrote. “Growing up in Carol City [, Florida] with a house full of brothers, his work was always something me and my siblings bonded over. His work on ‘Dragon Ball,’ ‘Dragon Ball Z,’ ‘GT,’ and ‘Super’ made me want to be the best version of myself because Goku was the person that kids looked up to.”
Tributes will continue to pour in from musicians.
Toriyama’s cause of death has not been officially announced. However, according to a fan page, the 68-year-old officially passed away on March 1 as the result of acute subdural hematoma.
Netflix’s hip-hop sensation, Rhythm + Flow, is making a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus. Promising a second season that’s set to elevate the stakes and amplify the beats. The show, which previously anointed Grammy-nominated MC D Smoke as its inaugural champion and boasted guest judges like Cardi B, Chance The Rapper, and T.I., is shaking up its lineup for the upcoming season. However, it’s a pretty significant change this time around. The new panel of judges features none other than the dynamic trio of Latto, DJ Khaled, and Ludacris. But wait, there’s more! Eminem will step in as a special guest judge during the “Battle Round” competition.
In addition to this star-studded judging panel, Netflix’s VP of nonfiction series, Brandon Riegg, expressed the excitement surrounding the evolution of hip-hop. “We are taking things up a notch with a new cast of global hitmakers in our judges and a new pool of undiscovered artists,” he stated. It’s not just about seasoned mentors; it’s about the fusion of legendary insight from Ludacris, Latto, and DJ Khaled, coupled with Eminem’s unique brand of advice.
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) In this image released on August 2, D Smoke performs onstage during a taping of iHeartRadio’s Living Black 2023 Block Party in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for iHeartRadio )
Moreover, the show is one that has changed peoples’ lives and has provided a platform for success. D Smoke, the artist who won the first season for example, has seen heights in his career. He was even nominated for two Grammys: best new artist and best rap album. “I’ve trained myself to not look too far into things until they materialize,” D Smoke told Billboard “I figured if I didn’t raise my expectations too much then there’s no real disappointment to experience. But in doing so, once the news came I was through the roof. Literally, my voice is tired today from all the yelling I’ve been doing.”
Furthermore, Riegg highlighted the transformative mentorship that has taken place in previous seasons, catapulting contestants to global recognition. The anticipation is palpable as these industry titans gear up to guide a fresh wave of talent on their journeys. Rhythm + Flow is not just a show; it’s a platform that propels musical geniuses into the limelight, captivating audiences worldwide.
Chance The Rapper has been riding on the high of celebrating the tenth anniversary of his groundbreaking mixtape, Acid Rap. However, the “Yah Know” musician isn’t ignoring fans’ requests for new music. Yesterday (December 23), Chance revealed that his long-teased sophomore album, Star Line Gallery, has a tentative release date.
“My album’s coming out next spring,” yelled the entertainer during his Instagram Live broadcast.
When asked by his friend in the room if it was an exclusive announcement, Chance joked that there weren’t many people to share the news with. “It’s cool; there are only 500 people in here. No one logs on when I’m doing good work,” laughed the rapper.
Chance The Rapper Confirms His Sophomore Studio Album Titled “Star Line Gallery” Will Be Releasing This Spring
In June, Chance discussed the forthcoming project with Audacy’s Check In podcast host, Julia. “It’s one of my proudest projects in terms of writing and artistic vision. There’s an immense amount of work to be done with it,” said Chance.
He went on to add, “But it’s cool ’cause I feel like with the love and intentionality that goes into making each physical art piece gives me an opportunity to show people in these museum spaces what I’m working on as I go, the highs and the lows, kind of like a preview to the project.”
Chance The Rapper’s debut album, The Big Day, was released in 2019.
‘Tis the season for holiday cheer and catchy tunes, and while fans may think of traditional carols and pop ballads, hip-hop has also left its mark on Christmas music. From Tyler, The Creator’s Grinch-inspired tracks to Kanye West’s iconic “Christmas In Harlem,” get ready to be surprised as SOHH reveals the top six hip-hop artists who have crafted festive songs and albums for the holidays.
Tyler, The Grinch
In 2018, Tyler, The Creator introduced his talents to a wider audience with a role in The Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch soundtrack.
Not only did he create the catchy original song, “I Am The Grinch,” but he also delivered a hip-hop cover of the holiday classic, “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” Just a few days later, Tyler released an EP titled Music Inspired by Illumination & Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch, further showcasing his festive creativity.
In the realm of Tyler, The Creator’s world, the rapper continues to elevate and consistently showcase his versatility. He recently embarked on his annual festival, Camp Flog Gnaw which reached immense success, with heavy headliners such as Kendrick Lamar andBaby Keem, as they acted as a duo named, “The Hillbillies.”
‘The Ying and The Yang of The Holidays’
Known for their energetic club anthems, the Ying Yang Twinssurprised fans in 2008 with a holiday EP titled, The Ying and The Yang of The Holidays. The standout track, “Deck Da Club,” is their unique take on the Christmas classic, “Deck The Halls.”
Ceelo Green’s Magical Moment
In 2012, CeeLo Greendelved into the holiday spirit with his album CeeLo’s Magic Moment. Serving as his fourth studio album and first holiday release, it featured his renditions of beloved Christmas songs like “Mary Did You Know” and “What Christmas Means To Me.”
Chance The Rapper In The Holiday Spirit
On Christmas Eve 2016, Chance The Rapper surprised fans with a self-released mixtape on SoundCloud titled “Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama.”
Collaborating with singer Jeremih, the mixtape showcased their playful and festive side. The project gained so much popularity that it was reissued the following year as a double-disc mixtape with additional tracks and a piano remix.
Kanye Kristmas Karols
Adding to his diverse discography, Kanye West created a Christmas hit with his 2010 single, “Christmas In Harlem.” Featuring rapper Cyhi the Prynceand R&B singerTeyana Taylor, the track captured the holiday spirit while showcasing Kanye’s unique musical style.
Then, Ye has also been in the talks this year as fans are awaiting his highly-anticipated album release titled, Vultures. The album has created many conversations as he has collaborated with Ty Dolla $ignand his daughter, North West.
Khia’s ‘Santa Baby’
Known for her bold and explicit hit “My Neck, My Back,” Khia surprised fans with her own holiday offering in 2018. Releasing her version of “Santa Baby,” the rapper paid homage to the jolly old man himself with her signature flair.
Songs That Were Covers
Just when fans thought they knew everything about their favorite artists, they were surprised with unexpected songs and covers. From Beyoncé to Aaliyah, many musicians have put their spin on well-known tracks.
We’ve seen many different eras of Donald Glover throughout his career as an actor and artist, but arguably one of the best came during his Because the Internet album release. The 19-track project came out on this day (December 10) a decade ago, with guest appearances from Jhene Aiko, Azealia Banks, and Chance The Rapper on “The Worst Guys,” marking their third collaborative effort. It comes after Acid Rap‘s “Favorite Song” and another Childish Gambino cut, “They Don’t Like Me,” and remains in rotation for fans of both lyricists to this day.
Though the Chicago native doesn’t get to flex his lyrical chops on “The Worst Guys,” he does let his vocals shine on the hook with his longtime friend. His contribution may seem minor, but The Rapper’s unique voice helps create contrast between Glover’s always-impressive wordplay. “Tia and Tamera in my bed, I’m a smart guy / I ain’t f**king with you ni**as like apartheid,” the Swarm creator rhymes on the first verse. “Hits on my list, check my archive.”
Celebrate a Decade of Because the Internet with “The Worst Guys” Music Video
Since his 2013 LP, Gambino has slowed down musically, though his discography remains strong. 2014 brought forth his Kauai album, and after that came a distinct shift in sound on “Awaken, My Love!” in 2016. From there, the Atlanta actor delivered 3.15.20 ahead of the COVID-19 pandemic, and he appears on the soundtrack for his Beyonce-inspired Amazon Prime series.
Take yourself back a decade in time by watching Childish Gambino and Chance the Rapper make magic in the Because the Internet visual above. If “The Worst Guys” isn’t already on your throwback playlist, you can find it on Spotify/Apple Music. For more HNHH release recommendations, check out our weekly Fire Emoji update at the link below.
At a Clippers game on the courtside Watch a ni**a shoot like a four-five They mad at me too, I got more fire Why these b**ches see you? “Go home, Roger”
With Black Friday behind us, Cyber Monday and Giving Tuesday share the week following Thanksgiving. Giving Tuesday, often described as a global day of giving or a global generosity movement, is held each year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. The amount of charities to donate to may seem overwhelming, but we have made a list for hip-hop fans who want to donate to a good cause led by some of their favorite artists.
Nas, Save the Music foundation: For over 25 years, Nas’ organization has been delivering equitable access to music education for millions of students nationwide. Find out more and donate at https://www.savethemusic.org.
Beyoncé, BeyGOOD foundation– BeyGOOD foundation: Founded by Queen Bey, BeyGOOD focuses on economic equity by supporting marginalized and under-resourced programs, committed to serving people through educational scholarships, the advocacy of internships, and access to resources for advancing entrepreneurship and small business sustainability across the country and abroad. In addition to donating, people can volunteer with various affiliated causes. Find out more at https://beygood.org/.
Chance the Rapper, SocialWorks: Since 2016, Chance the Rapper’s Chicago-based organization has been empowering youth through the arts, education, and civic engagement. In addition to making a donation, supporters can also cop some SocialWorks swag on the site at https://www.socialworkschi.org/about-us/
50 Cent,G-Unity: In addition to being a successful rapper, 50 Cent is known to be a savvy businessman and his charity is helping empower youth with a year-long course that equips students in high-need communities with business acumen so they can start their own companies and achieve generational wealth. Find out more and donate at https://gunityfoundation.org
Akon, the Borgen project: Growing up in Senegal, Akon did not always have access to electricity, a problem facing many people still today. In 2014, Akon launched the “Akon Lighting Africa” project to help Africans access low-cost yet sustainable energy through solar power. In addition to donations, fans can also volunteer to be part of the organization’s efforts. More information can be found at https://borgenproject.org/electricity-to-africa/#:~:text=In%202014%2C%20Akon%20launched%20the,to%20more%20communities%20in%20Africa.
Snoop Dogg, Snoop Youth Football League: It’s no secret that Snoop is a many of many talents- rapper, entrepreneur, gamer, and football expert. His Youth Football league, which now includes basketball and football, helps provide youth with a solid foundation through sports. Find out more and donate at https://snoopfootball.com.
Big Sean, Sean Anderson Foundation: Detroit native Big Sean’s nonprofit focuses on providing Detroit-area youth with programs designed to promote economic prosperity, education and training, physical and mental health initiatives, and more. More information can be found at https://seanandersonfoundation.org/about/
Alicia Keys, Keep a Child Alive: Alicia Keys’ charity provides HIV/AIDS service and support for 9 community organizations that serve people throughout Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda and India. Find out how you can get involved or donate at https://www.keepachildalive.org
Kanye West,Donda’s House (Common has also donated): Kanye’s mother played an important role in his life and he’s honored her legacy through Donda’s house, which provides programming that combines creative arts such as music and fashion with business development, marketing skills, and event planning to young adults on the south side of Chicago. More information can be found at ) https://www.macfound.org/grantee/dondas-house-10104166/
Rihanna, Clara Lionel Foundation (CLF): the foundation was founded in 2012 by Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty in honor of her grandparents, Clara and Lionel Braithwaite. CLF invests in climate justice initiatives in the Caribbean & United States and helps communities prepare for and withstand natural disasters. To find our more, visit https://claralionelfoundation.org
J Cole, Dreamville Foundation: North Carolina native J Cole’s charitable organization provides programs, events, and charitable donations that empower and inspire youth in his native Fayetteville to achieve success in reaching their dreams. Supporters can donate at https://www.thedreamvillefoundation.org
Many hip-hop artists have tried and failed when attempting to make holiday music. Rappers have repeatedly attempted to make holiday or Christmas-themed songs, but they frequently appear corny, unoriginal, or cringeworthy. Some have tried to put a hip-hop spin on holiday classics, while others boldly made their own original music. Few rappers have successfully made holiday songs, let alone complete projects.
Today, we are looking at 7 holiday hip-hop albums, including EPs, that aren’t cringe. Most hip-hop holiday music is centered around Christmas, so naturally, these selections are as well. These albums are perfect for a rap fan’s holiday festivities. Take a look at the list below.
Freeway – Black Santa (2012)
Freeway’s 2012 Christmas EP does not deviate from his sound at all, applying holiday themes to his signature street raps. The 9-track project is festive with its Christmas bars but also emulates the winter with its cold delivery and tough production. Peedi Crakk, Young Chris, Memphis Bleek, Iman Shumpert, and more contribute verses to Black Santa. Freeway and his guests bring their typical bars, referencing Christmas as they apply. Some songs are more holiday-centric than others but are not at all cringeworthy.
Chance The Rapper and Jeremih dropped the ultimate hip-hop Christmas album in 2016. Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama is a Chicago affair that blends Chance’s melodic and Jeremih’s modern R&B. The mixtape overwhelmingly conveys the warm feelings of the holiday season and Christmas spirit. The jovial project sticks to its holiday theme while not taking itself too seriously. Chance provides his quirky raps and carefree melodies while Jeremih spreads joy with his singing. Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama primarily features fellow Chicago artists like Noname and King Louie. Since its initial release, the mixtape has been reissued twice with extra songs in both 2017 and 2020.
Gucci Mane – The Return Of East Atlanta Santa (2016)
Gucci Mane first dubbed himself “East Atlanta Santa” in 2014 with a mixtape of the same name. That project and its 2015 sequel, titled The Night Gu-Wop Stole X-Mas were quite cringe as they barely related to the holidays outside of their titles and artwork. These projects were released on Christmas day in their respective years to feed Gucci’s cult following. In 2016, Gucci Mane returned from prison as a new artist, both physically and musically. His release from prison also marked The Return of East Atlanta Santa, his third commercial album that year.
Released during a creative peek, Gucci Mane’s Christmas album is an essential listen for trap fans. While the majority of the project may not directly relate to the holidays, one can enjoy Christmas bangers like “St. Brick Intro.” The Return of East Atlanta Santa also includes hit singles like “Both” with Drake and “Last Time” with Travis Scott. Gucci Mane has since embraced Christmas with 2019’s East Atlanta Santa 3.
Mr. Muthafuckin’ eXquire – Merry eXmas 3 (2017)
One of the underground’s most eccentric MCs, Mr. Muthafuckin’ eXquire has been releasing holiday hip-hop albums since 2011. Merry eXmas & SMD, his trilogy of mixtapes contains his aggressive and unorthodox style of rapping, but with a holiday twist. His most recent Christmas mixtape, 2017’s Merry eXmas 3, is his best and is far from cringe. Over smooth production, eXquire spits tough bars to embrace the holiday season in his own unique way. A short listen, Merry eXmas 3 is perfect for underground rap fans.
Tyler, The Creator – Music Inspired By Illumination & Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (2018)
In 2018, Tyler, The Creator was involved in the soundtrack of The Grinch. He contributed two songs to the official soundtrack before releasing an EP inspired by the film. While not explicitly a Christmas-themed EP, The Grinch is certainly a Christmas story. Tyler also specified that the EP contained “Christmas-themed music,” “keeping the 7-year-olds in mind but also wanting the parents to listen.”
His Grinch-inspired passion project is not at all cringe, containing beautifully produced tracks that explore holiday traditions like Christmas lights, “Hot Chocolate,” and a “Big Bag” of toys. The EP may not be entirely hip-hop but Tyler does rap on songs like “Lights On” and “Big Bag.” Tyler, The Creator’s Grinch-inspired work is one of the all-time great holiday hip-hop albums.
Passport Gift & Parks – Gift Wrapping 3 (2020)
Since 2018, Passport Gift and Parks, co-host of The Joe Budden Podcast, have been releasing Christmas-themed albums. Five projects deep, 2020’s Gift Wrapping 3 is the best work from the rapper/producer duo. What makes the Gift Wrapping series special in the scope of holiday hip-hop albums is that they include street raps but do not deviate from the Christmas theme. A short, 18-minute listen, Gift Wrapping 3 has features from Stove God Cooks, Ransom, Che Noir, and Marc Stro, resulting in the perfect Christmas present for rap purists.
Noveliss & Hir-O – Sage Of The Season (2020)
Noveliss of Clear Soul Forces teamed up with producer Hir-O in 2020 for a 4-track Christmas EP titled Sage of the Season. The project reimagines classic Christmas stories in hip-hop form. Noveliss skillfully spits descriptive bars about Santa Claus and Jack Frost with his signature choppy flow. The beats are relaxing, but do not venture far from Noveliss’s ear for lo-fi Detroit-style boom bap. A delightful and comforting listen, Sage of the Season is far from cringe and is one of the better holiday hip-hop albums in recent memory.
Ever since the copious amount of backlash Chance the Rapper got for his 2019 record, The Big Day, it seems he has taken a step back. Sure, the Chicago artist has some singles after that release, but there has been little headway if any toward a new LP. It is crazy to think after such tremendous success earlier in his career is nullified by one less favorable project. This just goes to show how unforgiving music fans can be and it is part of the problem.
However, that topic can be talked about at another time. Let us focus on this brand-new single from Chance. One of the things that makes him so great is his wit and fun wordplay. He has put this on full display throughout his career and he does it even more so in his “Writing Exercise” series.
Chance last put one of these tracks back in 2022 with VIC MENSA and Smoko Ono. It was titled “Wraith,” but it is also considered the third one. Before that, in March, he released the second one. After about a year he is back with number five. You can check out the latest entry up above.
What are your initial thoughts on this brand-new track from Chance the Rapper, “Writing Exercise #5?” Is this the best installment in the series so far? Do you think we will get a new album from Chance in the near future? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Chance the Rapper, as well as all of the hottest song drops.
Quotable Lyrics:
Empty love Joy and grief Watch your back Brush your teeth Kiss for now Back to bed
