American Music and Black Identity (Honors)

Interdisciplinary: This course is offered either for English or History credit. 

From Robert Johnson and Howlin’ Wolf to Kendrick Lamar and GZA; from Bessie Smith and Billie Holiday to Chaka Khan and Rihanna; from Sly to Marvin to Stevie to Prince and beyond—Black musicians have represented the vibrant whole of the Black experience as it has defined American history. This course explores the idea that music created by Black artists has in fact created a truly American narrative. Black music is the story of the United States and its culture. Through music and literature, we will consider, celebrate, and interrogate identities such as “Black” and “American.” The course will center on two extraordinary documents: James Baldwin’s The Fire Next Time and Questlove’s documentary on the Harlem Cultural Festival, Summer of Soul. No background in music is needed—just a love of music!