"Why Hip-Hop Captures the Essence of American Life Better Than Literature"

(By A.D. Carson, University of Virginia) In 2017, I was labeled UVA's "first" hip-hop professor, which overlooked Kyra Gaunt's earlier contributions. Misleading narratives persist, as seen with Lupe Fiasco's upcoming role at Johns Hopkins. Hip-hop accurately captures American life, challenging institutional narratives while celebrating Black resilience and achievement.