Chance the Rapper, the celebrated musician and now a charismatic Coach on NBC’s The Voice, is as known for his distinctive baseball cap emblazoned with the number “3” as he is for his infectious rhymes and positive vibes. If you’ve tuned into The Voice or seen photos of Chance in public, you’ve likely noticed this ever-present accessory. But what’s the story behind the “3”? It’s more than just a fashion statement; it’s a symbol deeply intertwined with his career and personal life.
The Rebellious Roots of Hat-Wearing
Chance the Rapper performing at Way out West in Gothenburg, Sweden, showcasing his signature “3” hat.
Chance’s affinity for hats began in his teenage years, stemming from a playful act of rebellion. As he recounted to GQ, his high school days were marked by frequent hat confiscations. “I used to always rock a cap when I was in high school and get them taken away. It was an excessive amount. Like, so often that at the end of each school year, there would be a box of all the confiscated caps. After they gave back a few caps to other kids, they would just give me the box because the rest were all my hats.” This humorous anecdote reveals that his hat-wearing habit wasn’t just a style choice, but also a bit of a personal statement against rules he found arbitrary. This early experience likely solidified his attachment to hats as a form of self-expression.
“Coloring Book” and the Birth of the “3”
The specific choice of the number “3” emerged with his critically acclaimed 2016 mixtape, Coloring Book. This project was a pivotal moment in Chance’s career, solidifying his status as a major force in the music industry. He explained, “I wanted to put something else on the hat. And so I decided to do ‘3’. I just thought that that made the most sense because it was the third project.” Initially, the mixtape was going to be titled The Magnificent Coloring Book. However, Chance felt the lengthy title was visually cumbersome for his signature hat. The simple, bold “3” became the perfect solution – a concise and impactful representation of his third major release.
A Symbol of Faith, Family, and Fortune
Beyond being a marker of his third project, the “3” hat carries a deeper, more personal significance for Chance. He has shared that the number resonates with him on multiple levels, encompassing themes of spirituality and family. “I’ve rationalized it to myself that it stands for the third mixtape, the holy trinity, and the three-pronged family of myself, my daughter, and my girl,” he revealed. The “holy trinity” aspect alludes to his Christian faith, which is a recurring theme in his music and life. The “three-pronged family” represents the core of his personal world – himself, his daughter, and his partner. Thus, the “3” is not just a number; it’s a powerful symbol encapsulating key aspects of Chance the Rapper’s identity: his artistic journey, his faith, and his family.
The “3” Hat as a Brand
Chance The Rapper in a promo shot for The Voice season 25, consistently sporting his iconic “3” hat.
Over time, the “3” hat has transcended its personal origins and become an integral part of Chance the Rapper’s brand. It’s instantly recognizable and synonymous with his image. Whether he’s performing on stage, appearing on television shows like The Voice, or simply out in public, the “3” hat is a constant. It serves as a visual signature, reinforcing his identity and connecting him with his fans. It’s a testament to how a simple symbol, born from personal meaning and practical considerations, can evolve into a powerful and enduring brand element in popular culture.
In conclusion, Chance the Rapper’s “3” hat is far more than just a piece of headwear. It’s a multifaceted symbol that represents his rebellious spirit, his breakthrough musical project, and his deeply held personal values. It’s a reminder of his journey, his faith, and his commitment to family, all while being a distinctive and clever branding tool. So, the next time you see Chance sporting his “3” hat, you’ll know the rich and meaningful story behind this iconic emblem.
