Wonderscape
Cultural Appropriation in Black Music: Influence or Theft?
Explore the complex history of cultural appropriation in Black music, from early blackface performances to modern-day debates. This video examines how white artists have borrowed from and been influenced by Black music, sparking...
Wonderscape
The Evolution of Rhythm and Blues to Hip-Hop
Trace the journey of Black music from the post-WWII rhythm and blues era through the rise of Motown, the powerful voices of the Civil Rights era, and the emergence of hip-hop in the Bronx. Learn how each genre influenced the next,...
Wonderscape
The Rise of Ragtime and the Blues
Discover the emergence of ragtime and blues music during and after the Reconstruction Era. Learn how ragtime brought a rhythmic, danceable sound to America, while the blues gave voice to personal stories of struggle and resilience....
Wonderscape
The Origins and Evolution of Black Music in America
Explore the deep roots and evolution of Black music in America, starting with the spirituals of enslaved Africans and moving through gospel traditions. Learn how music has served as a source of resilience, hope, and expression through...
Curated Video
The Harlem Cultural Festival: Summer of Soul
The Harlem Cultural Festival, also known as the Black Woodstock, was a watershed moment for Black culture in America that history almost forgot.
The Wall Street Journal
Culture Eats Code
Ben Horowitz, co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, shares his take on the current climate in the Valley and what figures like Genghis Khan can teach tech leaders at WSJ tech Live in Laguna Beach.
Institute for New Economic Thinking
How Music Helped James Baldwin Make Sense of Inequality
What can music offer to economists? Ed Pavlić, Distinguished Research Professor of English and African American Studies at the University of Georgia, explains how music offered a powerful lyrical companion to the social scientific tools...
Curated Video
Music and Black History
Music is an important and effective medium for communicating emotions and inspiration. Learn about two important Black musicians who don't often get talked about in school: Abbey Lincoln and Fela Aníkúlápó Kuti.
Curated Video
Elvis Presley's Complicated History With Black Musicians
Elvis was famously inspired by Black musicians of his era, but some say he only copied and profiteered off Black artists without credit.
NPR: National Public Radio
Npr: Honky Tonks, Hymns and the Blues
Audio story focuses on the unique traditions in American music including country music, blues, and gospel.