Chance the Rapper brought his signature mix of joy, spirituality, and Chicago soul to The Fillmore in New Orleans on September 27, 2025, for a performance that felt as personal as it was powerful. The sold-out crowd filled the venue with energy long before Chance hit the stage, thanks to a hometown warm-up set from New Orleans legend Juvenile. The opener was the perfect way to ground the night in the city’s musical roots, and when Juvenile performed “Back That Azz Up,” the crowd’s reaction made it clear that this was more than just an opening act, it was a local celebration.

When Chance emerged, the room erupted. Backed by a live band, he opened with “Star Side Intro,” an atmospheric way to ease the crowd into the night before launching into high-energy cuts like “Ride,” “All Night,” and “Burn Ya Block.” He struck a strong balance between newer material from his And We Back era and fan favorites that helped define his career. The crowd sang along word for word to “Cocoa Butter Kisses,” one of the night’s most nostalgic moments, while “The Highs & Lows” and “Drapetomania” showcased his introspective side and lyrical growth. His setlist told a story, one that celebrated where he came from, but also where he’s heading as an artist still evolving nearly a decade after Coloring Book.

Throughout the night, Chance proved that his greatest strength remains his authenticity. He wasn’t chasing a polished arena show or hiding behind spectacle. The visuals were minimal, relying mostly on moody lighting and spotlight work, which kept the focus on him and his band. He smiled through verses, laughed at ad-libs, and often turned the mic toward the crowd to let them take over choruses. During songs like “All Night” and “Smoke Break,” the venue transformed into a communal space — a chorus of voices moving as one. His voice, though occasionally strained during faster verses, carried well through the emotional songs and his natural charisma filled every corner of the room.

Fans online later noted that the posted setlist might not have captured everything performed that night, with several in attendance swearing they heard “Summer Friends” and “Ultralight Beam.” Whether or not those songs made it into the set, it’s clear Chance kept the show dynamic and flexible, feeding off the crowd’s energy. The night closed with “Speed of Love,” a sweeping finale that brought things full circle, leaving the audience in a mix of reflection and euphoria.

Chance’s return to New Orleans wasn’t about spectacle, it was about connection. Between Juvenile’s local flavor, Chance’s heartfelt delivery, and the intimacy of The Fillmore, the night became something special for fans who’ve grown up with him. It wasn’t the most polished performance of the tour, but it was one of the most genuine, proving once again that Chance’s power lies not in perfection but in the feeling he creates when he’s on stage. For those who showed up ready to believe in him again, they left reminded of why they did in the first place.