The freestyle verse Chance the Rapper wrote for his girlfriend over “So Gone” by Monica, was definitely one of the highlights of early August. As always, Chance was charismatic in his flow and word choice, but what captivated me most about this video, even more than the lyrics, is Chance’s obvious and blatant vulnerability.

So often in our culture and community masculinity is worn as a garb of clothing that cannot be removed for fear of over exposure. In fact, I’ve been on a recent soapbox rant about men and their feeling of ownership over a woman’s body and person. Thankfully, that need to control is not what I witness when watching this video.

I’m a firm believer that the eyes are the window to the soul, and what I saw behind his each time he glanced at her was electric. His eyes showed not only deep respect, but a deep level of trust and comfort that provided him the affirmation needed to be so comfortable expressing his feelings for her not only to her, but to anyone in the world who chose to view his video confessional.

-Ms. Malcolm Hughes

Ms. Malcolm Hughes is the editor-in-chief of For Your Black? Conscious. She is a Chicago, IL native–from the city, not the suburbs–strategizing in Washington, D.C. She strives every day to not disappoint or defer the dreams of her 13 year old self. Because at that age, more than any other, she just wanted to see her people win. You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter @fybconscious.