Chance the Rapper announces purchase of local news website Chicagoist in new song

'I bought the Chicagoist just to run you racist bitches out of business'

Jack Shepherd
Thursday 19 July 2018 13:42 BST
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Chance The Rapper has purchased the Chicago-based publication Chicagoist, announcing the news on a new song.

"I bought the Chicagoist just to run you racist bitches out of business," the artist raps on the newly released track "I Might Need Security".

The 25-year-old has since confirmed the acquisition, saying in a statement: "I’m extremely excited to be continuing the work of the Chicagoist, an integral local platform for Chicago news, events and entertainment.”

Chicagoist has been dormant since November last year, when billionaire Joe Ricketts decided to close the website.

Chance, who made the purchase with his newly formed company Social Media LLC from New York Public Radio’s WNYC, added: "I look forward to re-launching it and bringing the people of Chicago an independent media outlet focused on amplifying diverse voices and content."

Laura Walker, President and CEO of New York Public Radio, said: “We are delighted that the Chicagoist assets are finding a new home in the hands of a proud Chicagoan.

"WNYC has a strong commitment to local journalism and building community, and we are pleased that these assets will be used to support local coverage in the great city of Chicago.”

Chance also released another three tracks - “Work Out,” “65th & Ingleside” and “Wala Cam” - which are all available on the rapper's website and streaming services. Meanwhile, Chance recently said that "no album" would be coming out this week but has previously said that projects with Kanye West and Childish Gambino are in the works.

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