Chicagoans gathered at the Adler Planetarium for an exclusive listening party hosted by Chance the Rapper, the Chicago native returning home with great anticipation surrounding his latest album, Star Line. The intimate event drew a blend of die-hard fans and creatives eager to experience Chance’s newest body of work in a truly unique setting.
From the moment guests arrived, they were welcomed with warm smiles, soft notes of Chance’s music drifting through the air, and light bites with festive drinks that nourished both body and spirit. Each attendee received a goodie bag with gifts and was lent a headphone for the silent listening party—setting the tone for a personal, immersive journey. As the planetarium dome dimmed to darkness, the experience transformed: lyrics danced across the “sky” while stars, clouds, fire, and wind moved in rhythm, surrounding listeners in a celestial blend of music and atmosphere.
Relaxed in bean bags beneath the dome, fans journeyed with Chance through soundscapes that felt deeply personal yet universal. The album resonates as a reflection of his lived experiences, political observations, and global travels, particularly his time in Ghana. Chance shared that Star Line was motivated by a search for freedom—something he believes many Americans continue to chase amid political tension and social upheaval. His inspiration came from many places: documentaries impacting Black communities, Richard Pryor’s legendary comedy specials, and his immersion in diverse Black cultures across the U.S. and abroad—from D.C. to New Orleans, Jamaica to Africa.
The project also showcases Chance’s signature collaborative spirit. The album features 17 tracks with contributions from Jamila Woods, Jazmine Sullivan, BJ the Chicago Kid, BabyChiefDoIt, Vic Mensa, Joey Bada$$, Young Thug, TiaCorine, Lil Wayne, Smino, Jay Electronica, and more. The cover art, designed by Chicago artist Brandon Breaux—who has partnered with Chance since 10 Day, Acid Rap, and Coloring Book—further reinforces the album’s deep ties to Chicago’s creative community.
Songs like Space and Time, Tree (featuring Lil Wayne and Smino), Pretty, Burn Ya Block, and Speed of Light (featuring LION BABE, and BJ the Chicago Kid)—moving from sentimental to celebratory to motivational. The album is equal parts nostalgic and forward-looking, weaving together rhythms and influences gathered from his years of travel and cultural exploration.
During the Q&A section, many attendees shared stories of how they followed Chance’s journey from his debut album in 2019, 10 Day, and Acid Rap to Coloring Book. Some recognized familiar melodies woven into the new tracks, but no one was fully prepared for the way Star Line unfolded—it’s an album that takes listeners through atmospheric shifts, raw emotions, and layered sounds.
