Course Description

This course presents the development of hip-hop as a musical style and cultural movement. Students have the opportunity to examine key figures in hip-hop, institutions, and social settings through readings, electronic media, videos, and hands-on projects. Students also have the opportunity investigate how hip-hop culture is not only a source of entertainment, but also a medium that provides commentary regarding social, economic, political and cultural issues dealing with identity, cultural genocide, misogyny, racism, class-ism, materialism, freedom of speech and sexuality.