Coloring Book cover

Released 10 years ago

Coloring Book

Chance the Rapper · 2016

57 min · 14 tracks · contemporary R&B

A vibrant tapestry of gospel-infused hip-hop, blending uplifting melodies with Chance's signature playful lyricism.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    No Problem — This track features a defiant anthem against industry pressures while showcasing Chance's energetic flow and memorable hooks, making it a standout hit.
  • →
    Blessings — With its gospel influences and uplifting message, this track encapsulates the mixtape's spiritual core and highlights Chance's ability to merge faith with hip-hop.
  • →
    Same Drugs — This introspective song reflects on lost connections and nostalgia through a haunting melody, illustrating Chance's depth as a songwriter.
  • →
    Angels — A celebration of resilience and faith, this track showcases Chance's unique ability to blend personal storytelling with broader social themes through an infectious sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

81 /100
Summit
Higher than 100% of albums we've rated

Coloring Book blends genres with innovative arrangements and strong lyrical themes, making it a standout in contemporary R&B.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature a consistent upbeat tempo and strong gospel influences, while the following tracks introduce slower rhythms and more introspective themes.
  • Several tracks incorporate live instrumentation, particularly in the brass and choir sections, enhancing the album's vibrant sound.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
9/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
9/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • uplifting and positive vibes
  • wave-like pacing experience
  • short, impactful listening bursts
  • reflective and contemplative moments

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2016, Coloring Book was Chance the Rapper's third mixtape and represented a significant moment in his career following the success of Acid Rap in 2013. This release further established him as a leading voice in contemporary hip-hop while affirming his independence from traditional record label structures.
Stylistic neighbors
Anderson .Paak· Saba· Isaiah Rashad

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Same Drugs

    The verse shifts from reflective reminiscence to an urgent realization about growing apart from childhood friends.

    This transition emphasizes the loss of innocence while contrasting past joy with present disconnection, deepening the emotional impact.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 All We Got 3:24
  • 2 No Problem 5:05
  • 3 Summer Friends 4:50
  • 4 D.R.A.M. Sings Special 1:41
  • 5 Blessings 3:42
  • 6 Same Drugs 4:18
  • 7 Mixtape 4:53
  • 8 Angels 3:26
  • 9 Juke Jam 3:40
  • 10 All Night 2:22
  • 11 How Great 5:37
  • 12 Smoke Break 3:46
  • 13 Finish Line / Drown 6:47
  • 14 Blessings 3:50

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata