Back in 2016, we provided a top five list of Chicago artists you need to check for. If you have been paying attention, the list has been pretty spot on. The Boy Illinois, one of the artists from this distinguished list, just inked a distribution deal with Priority Records. His many years of grinding have paid off.
Priority Records has added Boy Illinois to a roster that consists of greats like Snoop Dogg, Jay Z and Ice Cube.
“The music and Energy of The Boy Illinois fits Priority and we are excited he’s a part of this distribution service. Great to partner with a solid team. They are independent thinkers,” said GM of Priority Records Fuzzy West in a press release.
The music industry is changing consistently and with so many artists choosing to stay independent, partnerships like these seem to be few. Artists like Chance The Rapper, who is also from Chicago, have chosen the independent route and it has worked out amazingly for many of them.
The Boy Illinois’ move appears to provide a proper boost for a talented artist. This partnership seems promising because The Boy Illinois has come to the table with a polished product and Priority will give him the support he needs.
The Boy Illinois has spent the past few years securing this deal while he has toured with Lupe Fiasco.
The wave of amazing music coming out of Chicago seems like it won’t be stopping anytime soon. We congratulate The Boy Illinois and look forward to what he will deliver to the masses.
We asked The Boy Illinois how he feels about this moment; he said, “It opens up more platforms for me to share my gift with the world.”
Keep a look out for his new video “Dances Like Diddy” that will be released early June and will be distributed by Born Leaders Inc/Priority Records.
Listen to some of The Boy Illinois’ music below.
