Chance The Rapper continues to reap the rewards of an ultra-successful 2016, taking home the trophy for Best New Hip-Hop Artist at the 2017 iHeartRadio Music Awards. Kevin Gates, Desiigner, D.R.A.M. and Kent Jones were other rappers in contention for the trophy.

The ascendant Chano, who also took home two Grammys just a few weeks ago, has been one of the busiest artists in the rap game--and, given his multi-dimensional skillset and aspirations, rightfully so. Last week, the "No Problem" performer met with the Illinois Governor Rauner to discuss ways to improve the education system in his home state. Although he didn't seem to think too much ground was gained during the meeting, it was a move in the right direction.

About a week before he met with Governor Rauner, Chano linked with DJ Khaled, Migos, Justin Bieber and Lil Wayne to shoot a video for an upcoming mega-banger for Khaled's forthcoming Grateful album

Around that same time, the Acid Rap MC appeared in an extensive interview session with Yahoo's Katie Couric. During the interview, Chano confirmed that he'd be embarking on a 40-city tour, while also revealing the inspiration behind the gospel-tinged sound of Coloring Book. Apparently, he found the inspiration after rediscovered Kirk Franklin's album in L.A.

“I don’t remember what it was that made me start listening to Kirk [Franklin] again […] I grew up in the church, but I didn’t really know how good Kirk Franklin was until I was in L.A.,” Chano explained during the interview.

He continued, “When I started listening to that, I was like okay, this is what I need to be working on. It got me into a range of music and understanding how chords work and not only how important pitch is, but how important tone is."

Fans can once again see how Chano uses tone to enhance his music when he begins his 40 city tour in April.

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