Started from the Bottom Now We're Where? Rap & the Black Community

Rap has been one of the most powerful cultural forces to emerge in the last thirty years. This panel discussion will look in-depth at the history of rap and how it has contributed to and personified the changes in the black community.

The lyrics, appearances, and lifestyles of rappers since the early 1980s have varied greatly. Where once rap represented the voice of the community, now an argument can be made that rap projects the listener's "ideal life" rather than the community's "real life." 

Our distinguished panelists will share their perspectives on rap's history, its present, and perhaps where it is headed in the future. 

This program will take place on Thu Nov 14 at 7pm in PSY 108. Panelists who will participate include:

Dr. Derek J. Wilson

Associate Professor of Psychology

Prairie View A&M University

Dr. James T. Jones III

Associate Professor of History

Prairie View A&M University

Dr. Tommy Curry

Assistant Professor of Philosophy

Texas A&M University

Dr. Veeda V. Williams

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Sociology

Prairie View A&M University

Dr. Reuben A. Buford May

Professor of Sociology

Texas A&M University