Course Description: Through an investigation of Hip-Hop music and culture this course will introduce students to the terms, analytical techniques, and interpretive strategies
commonly employed in cultural studies. A particular emphasis will be placed on interdisciplinary approaches that explore how cultural processes and artifacts are produced, shaped, distributed, consumed, and responded to in diverse ways. Through discussion, research, and writing, class members will investigate these varied dimensions of culture; learn to understand them in their broader social, aesthetic, ethical, and political contexts; and thereby prepare for more advanced coursework in Cultural Studies.

Book List: Tricia Rose; Black Noise; ISBN 0-8195-6275-0
Imani Perry; Prophets of the Hood; ISBN 0-8223-3446-1
Jeff Chang; Can't Stop, Won't Stop; ISBN 0-312-42579-1
Jay-Z; Decoded; ISBN 0-8129-8115-4