Image by Chicago Suntimes

Chance The Rapper Pays Tribute to Muhammed Ali

Chance The Rapper took to the stage at this week’s ESPY Awards with an emotional tribute to boxer Muhammad Ali. Stood in front of visuals featuring Ali’s life and career, and interspersed with sound bites from the man himself, Chance delivered a stirring song with the refrain “I was a rock / I was a rock ’n’ roller / Back in my day / But now I’m just a rock”.

Ali passed away earlier this year after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Aged 74 at his death, the heavyweight boxing champion was regarded as one of the most significant sporting personalities of the twentieth century. As well as an inspiring activist and human rights advocate.

Echoing Ali’s professional appearance, Chance delivered his tribute from behind a suspended 55SH microphone. Synonymous with the sport, but also legendary musicians like Elvis Presley. The Chicago MC was backed by a full choir and regular collaborators Donnie Trumpet, Jamila Woods, Peter Cottontale and Teddy Jackson.

Moving between soulful melodies and rousing choruses, Chance The Rapper conveyed the volumes of emotion attached to the figure of Muhammad Ali. The lyrics hinted at both the boxer’s respected person as well as his relationship with God. Verging on a gospel song with the words “And of course, you’re in the last place I look/ I swear, ain’t nowhere greater/ Ain’t nowhere brighter/ Ain’t nowhere better, better, better!”

Read more: Rest in peace Muhammad Ali: A Lyrical Hip-Hop Tribute

Read more: The Hip-Hop World Reacts to Muhammad Ali’s Passing

Image by Chicago Suntimes