WATCH: Chance The Rapper Makes History as First Independent Artist to Perform on SNL

By Sameer Rao Dec 14, 2015

Even if Saturday Night Live ceased to be the nation’s comedic gold standard a long time ago, the show’s musical guests still use their performances to make statements and cement their reputations. Acclaimed Chicago emcee and singer Chance the Rapper did just that last weekend. His SNL performance marked the first time an independent artist has performed on the show. 

For that history-making performance, Chance and frequent collaborators The Social Experiment performed jubilant versions of two newer songs, "Somewhere in Paradise," (joined fellow Chicagoan singer Jeremih) and "Sunday Candy." In the latter song, Chance referenced Jason Van Dyke, the ex-Chicago police officer who killed teenager Laquan McDonald: "I’ve been waiting all week, I’ve been waiting all night, Jason Van Dyke/Had to say something on Saturday, see you at church on Sunday."

Watch both performances below. 

 
 

(H/t Complex, Chicago Tribune)