The CBC has named rapper Shad as the new host of the radio show Q.

Shad, whose given name is Shadrach Kabango, replaces Jian Ghomeshi who was fired in October and now faces sexual assault charges.

The CBC announced the show will keep the same name and re-launch in mid-April.

The search for Ghomeshi's replacement included more than 200 people, executive director of CBC Radio Talk Cindy Witten said.

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

Witten also said the revamped show would feature more musical performances and be less structured.

Shad was born in Kenya to Rwandan parents, CBC reported. He was raised in Canada and has a business degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and a master's degree in liberal studies from Simon Fraser University.

He released his first album in 2005.