Beyond winning Chance the Rapper the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, Coloring Book also distinguished him as a unique force in Chicago hip-hop. The career-defining release’s gospel overtones, pop hooks and diverse flow saw Chancelor Jonathan Bennett come into his own as a suave, God-fearing punchline purveyor. He…

Photos: Jay Demetillo OAKLAND — Chance the Rapper brought the gospel to the Oracle Arena Wednesday. The gospel of Chance, that is. Returning to the Bay Area for the second time in less than a year, Chance the Rapper stopped by Oakland on his “Be Encouraged” tour, bringing with him…

Photos: Roman Gokhman SAN FRANCISCO — Anyone still wondering what makes Chance the Rapper 2016’s break-out hip hop star had those questions answered Friday night at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, the first of two Bay Area dates on his “Magnificent Coloring World Tour.” Performing for the first time…