Success Without Selling

Chance The Rapper - success without selling.

Chancelor Bennett is a 23 year old Chicago musician that has been practicing his craft since childhood. His breakout mixed tape "10 Day" is about being suspended from high school. Since those ten days, Bennett's career has skyrocketed. Without actually selling any music.

"Some people are so poor, all they have is money."

Bennett, who performs as 'Chance The Rapper', hasn't sold any of his music because he gives it away for free. Referring to his art he says,"I don't make it for free. I make it for freedom." He is not currently signed to any record label.

Gifting his music to the world has not slowed this musician down one bit. Quite the opposite. His music can be heard on the radio. He has performed for late night TV audiences. He performs concerts for large audiences. He collaborates with famous performers.

And he gives his music away to his fans.

"Fame or perceived success - it all comes from groupthink." 

Why sell something if you can give it away? Is this artist insane? Or is he on to something? Can we have success without selling? Success without buying?

"Give it away, give it away, give it away now." Welcome to the gift economy.