Chance the Rapper, Lil Wayne & Smino Deliver a Powerful Message in “Tree”

Chance the Rapper, Lil Wayne, Smino Chance the Rapper, Lil Wayne, Smino
Photo Credit: Shaun Andru

Chance the Rapper, Smino, and Lil Wayne unite on “Tree,” celebrating Black resilience and womanhood.

Chance the Rapper, Lil Wayne, and Smino join forces on “Tree,” a powerful new release layered with lyrical depth and visual storytelling. The single offers more than just musicality — it’s a reflection on legacy, protection, and the cultural roots that anchor Black communities.

Chance leads the track with clarity and urgency, weaving messages of systemic injustice with tributes to the strength of Black families. He shines a light particularly on Black women — as nurturers, defenders, and creators of safe, prosperous spaces.

Joining him, Lil Wayne and Smino provide vivid verses, rich with surreal imagery and social commentary. Their contributions strike a balance between poetic levity and poignant truths, keeping the tone sharp but rooted in reverence.

The video, directed by Chance, was filmed at a Black woman-owned dispensary in Los Angeles. It evolves from a hangout scene with joyful women to a powerful visual metaphor: when two white police officers enter the space, the women transform the setting into a tranquil flower shop, symbolizing resilience and reclamation. This cinematic moment is a bold tribute to the role of Black women in community preservation and enterprise.

“Tree” also serves as an early glimpse into Star Line, Chance’s upcoming multidisciplinary project. Inspired by Marcus Garvey’s Black Star Line, the work explores the artist’s spiritual and creative journey across the Black diaspora.

This track isn’t just a song — it’s a celebration of heritage and the strength that grows from deeply rooted communities. “Tree” is legacy, labor, and liberation all wrapped in one.

Skip to content