CBC Radio: Rapper Shad Named New Host Of Q

Rapper Shad

The Rapper Shad will become the new host of CBC’s cultural affairs radio show Q, which will retain its name as it relaunches in mid-April.

The 32-year-old is a multiple Juno-nominated artist who has drawn praise in Canada and the U.S. for his humour, passion and originality, winning in 2011 for Rap Recording of the Year.

Born in Kenya to Rwandan parents, Shadrach Kabango was raised in London, Ont., going on to earn a business degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and a master’s degree in liberal studies from Simon Fraser University.

His first full-length release came in 2005 with When the Music's Over, and he broke out in a major way on the follow-up The Old Prince, which was nominated for a Polaris Prize. His most recent release was 2014's Flying Colours.

"Joining the Q team is an honour," Shad said late Tuesday. "My mission in music has always been to make a unique and positive contribution to culture and to people's lives. This is an exciting opportunity to pursue that same mission in a new way, alongside a brilliant, passionate team."

Cindy Witten, executive director of CBC Radio Talk, said that management conducted an exhaustive search for a new host, looking at more than 200 people.

"We were looking for someone who is an original thinker, curious and emotionally intelligent," said Witten. "Also, a good conversationalist who is witty and fast on their feet. We wanted someone steeped in arts and culture in this country.

"We found there were different points of connection with the guests when the host was a creator or an artist themselves."

The show has been searching for a permanent replacement host since the CBC fired its original host Jian Ghomeshi. He was dismissed after managers said they viewed "graphic evidence" that Ghomeshi had physically injured a woman. The former host is currently facing sexual assault charges.