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Chicago community advocate and rapper Heavy Crownz sets the stage for his upcoming project, Trench Baby Turned Farmer, with the release of his lead single, “Ball Courts,” featuring Windy City storytellers Panamera P and Ju Jilla.
Built on gritty, soulful production, the record reframes community basketball courts as more than places to play. They are environments where culture takes shape, innocence is tested, and some of the city’s most lasting lessons are learned. Directed by Clarkairlines and co-directed by Heavy Crownz himself, “Ball Courts” captures the range of personalities and stories moving through the blacktop and neighbourhood gyms. The visual serves as both a tribute and a testimony, reflecting the realities, bonds, and unspoken codes rooted in Chicago.
With “Ball Courts,” Crownz delivers a deeply personal, purposeful portrait rooted in his hometown, officially kicking off the rollout for his debut album, Trench Baby Turned Farmer (March 10th).
Beyond music, Heavy Crownz continues to pour into community spaces. He recently concluded a four-month residency as the first musician and second artist to serve as Artist in Residence at Hoste Cocktails, culminating in a hands-on floral workshop that marked the close of his You Can Grow Here exhibition. Centred on personal and collective growth, the experience invited participants to reflect through florals, with each stem symbolizing what they’ve nurtured and where they’re ready to grow next.
The evening also featured an exclusive preview of his accompanying album, blending sound and storytelling in a shared space. The residency stands as both a creative milestone and a reflection of his ongoing commitment to cultivating intentional, welcoming environments grounded in community.
Heavy Crownz “Ball Courts” single artwork