Since the advent of the phonograph and popular music radio, the musical culture of African Americans has been heavily documented and consumed by Americans at large. While the usage of the phrase “Black Lives Matter” is chronologically recent, the diverse sentiments of the movement can be found in music dating back over a century. This lecture will survey musical selections with emphasis on lyrical analysis, historical context, and public perception. Join me in exploring the protest music of Black America in Week 8 of our virtual lecture series.

This lecture series is hosted by Youngstown State University’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Student Diversity Programs.