Chicago's county government just decreed rap isn't music

Cook County, Illinois, which includes the city of Chicago, has decided that concerts featuring rap — along with country, rock, and electronic music — do not count as music or culture.

The announcement is part of a transparent attempt to bolster tax revenue, as smaller venues hosting such concerts are exempt from a 3 percent amusement tax if the events are classified as "live theatrical, live musical, or other live cultural performances." Cook County now says such musical performances don't count — a rule change that allows the county to demand $200,000 in back taxes from one venue alone.

Questioned on the matter at a hearing this week, the county government held its ground. "Rap music, country music, and rock 'n' roll do not fall under the purview of 'fine art,'" a county official insisted, perhaps to the surprise of Chicago natives like Kanye West, Common, and Chance the Rapper.

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Pat Doerr of the Hospitality Business Association of Chicago says he believes the county's decision will eventually be struck down in court, but not before some venues are forced to close by the financial strain of a lengthy legal battle.