Ten years after ending Def Poetry Jam’s run, Russell Simmons is attempting to breathe new life into the spoken word television series. And he is eyeing Chance The Rapper to host the reboot.
Uncle Rush recently shared the news with fans on Twitter. “Super excited. Been in negotiation with @chancetherapper to host Def poetry jam for HBO. !!!! Would u guys like to see that #Emmys,” the Def Jam co-founder wrote.
Def Poetry Jam, a spinoff of the wildly popular HBO series, Def Comedy Jam, originally ran from 2002-2007 and was hosted by Mos Def. The show featured the talents of up-and-coming and famous poets alike. Known entertainers also appeared on the show including, Lauryn Hill, DMX, Talib Kweli, Dave Chappelle, Kanye West, Tracey Morgan, David Banner, Mike Epps and more.
In other Chance-related news, the Chicago rapper was recently announced as one of the headliners for the 2017 Day N Night Festival, along with Kendrick Lamar and Travis Scott. The rest of the lineup is stacked as well and includes 21 Savage, Lil Uzi Vert, Russ, Playboi Carti, Famous Dex, Kodak Black, PnB Rock, $UICIDEBOY$, Taylor Bennett, Jay IDK, Pouya, Metro Boomin, SZA, Saba, Rich Chigga, Earl Sweatshirt and more. The festival is Sept. 8-10.
Chano was recently one of only a handful of rappers to be nominated for 2017 Emmy awards, along with Common, Snoop Dogg and LL Cool J.