Chance the Rapper has come under fire by a major publication for music that the newspaper feels "denigrates" women.
It's the New York Post.
Monday morning's edition of the New York Post featured some disparaging words about the up-and-coming rapper. The Post was angry that Chance had been named an ambassador to the Chicago White Sox, and reacted with a critical op-ed.
This disapproval apparently stems from Chance's perceivably misogynistic lyrics. The article was particularly focused on Chance's 2013 song "Smoke Again." Writer Phil Mushnick claims, because of lyrics in songs like this, Chance has presented himself as a negative role model for the children of Chicago.
Mushnick quotes a series of the "Sunday Candy" rapper's lyrics, and asks if Mayor Rahm Emanuel, MLBMLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and Reverend Jesse Jackson would feel comfortable saying his lyrics out loud in public.
"He's 22, unmarried with a child, grew up in suburban Chicago. His father had been a political operative for Chicago Mayor Harold Washington, then for Illinois Senator Barack Obama and now for Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel," Mushnick writes.
Mushnick continues, claiming Chance is a "pro forma, no-upside, can't-expect-better-from-us, women-denigrating, blood-on-the-breeze rap. He's especially fond of dope and regards young women as a sub-species in over-and-out service to his immediate libidinous whims, especially oral sex."
This opinion stands in stark contrast to that of Chicago public officials and fans all over the world. In 2014, Chance was awarded "The Outstanding Youth of the Year," by the city of Chicago. Furthermore, in November of 2015, the rapper was named as the "Chicagoan of the Year" by Chicago Magazine.
Mushnick made no mention of Chance's outspoken advocacy of non-violence and his tenacious support for the #SaveChicago initiative.
It is likely this article will provoke a fair amount of backlash from loyal Chance fans.
