MUS 354

Course Syllabus: http://herbergeronline.asu.edu/hiphop/

This upper-division course has three objectives: first, it will introduce students to the general history of rap music from its origins to about 1995. This broad overview will include discussions of most, but not all, of the major artists from this perios. Second, we will explore connections between rap music and the other elements of hip hop culture. Third, this course will challenge students to think critically about rap music and its place in society. We will use listening exercises, demonstrations, and conversations with artists to examine how rappers create meaning in their musical works. Drawing on secondary articles by rap critics and scholars, we will consider in detail such controversial subjects as censorship, sexism, obscenity, and race politics in America as they relate to rap music. No previous musical experience is required.