Chance the Rapper is entering a brand-new era with the release of his latest album Star Line—but fans are just as curious about his bond with Kanye West as they are about his music.
During a candid sit-down with Rory & Mal, Chance reflected on his creative journey, the inspiration behind Star Line, and where things really stand with Ye.
Chance on Kanye’s Influence
Chance has never shied away from crediting Kanye West for shaping his artistry. He revealed that West’s The College Dropout was the album that first sparked his drive to create music. Their relationship blossomed in 2016 with the groundbreaking “Ultralight Beam” from The Life of Pablo, a moment that helped propel Chance into the mainstream spotlight.
That same year, Chance confidently declared: “I met Kanye West, I’m never going to fail.” But years later, the statement feels layered, given the highs and lows of both his personal journey and West’s turbulent public life.
Their last official collaboration came in 2016 with “All We Got” from Chance’s Grammy-winning mixtape Coloring Book. Since then, rumors swirled about unreleased collabs possibly landing on Star Line.
Chance shut that talk down:
“I haven’t talked to him in a long time. He’s been one of the most significant influences in my music. He was at my wedding, our kids have spent time together. I’ll always have love for Kanye, but to be truthful, I haven’t spoken to him in a while.”
“It’s Not Beef—It’s Life”
When asked if there’s a chance they’ll reconnect, Chance compared it to friendships that fade with time.
“I have friends I haven’t spoken to in five, six, or even seven years. It’s not about fixing anything—it’s just life. I let people be who they are, and I’ll always be myself.”
For Chance, the distance doesn’t come from conflict but from life’s natural drift. He also noted their 16-year age difference and different social circles as factors in why they’ve grown apart.
A Creative Rebirth With Star Line
Star Line, which arrives four years after the lukewarm reception of The Big Day, has been described by fans as a creative rebirth. The album feels like a return to the imaginative, uplifting artistry that made Chance a household name.
Instead of chasing old collaborations, he’s embracing new energy and fresh sounds—marking a bold step into the next phase of his career.
For now, Chance seems focused on growth, balance, and defining success on his own terms. And while Kanye may no longer be in the picture, his influence clearly remains woven into Chance’s musical DNA.
Do you think Chance and Kanye will ever link back up—or has that chapter closed for good?