Rap and Hip Hop Culture
Spring 2026 | MUSL 1670 – Enrolling Now
In this course you’ll learn about the history of hip hop and culture from the 1970s to the present, exploring the dynamics of hip hop’s historical development, political influence, and social impact, particularly in American culture. Artists studied include Queen Latifah, Run-DMC, Tupak Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., Kendrick Lamar, and many more.
This class also explores relevant issues surrounding race, gender, cultural relations, economics, and social barriers relating to the genre. Discussions will include the coexistence of various hip hop styles and the exploitation of this music and culture as a commodity for national and global consumption.
Professor: Brittany Chase
Senior Lecturer of Musicology and Ethnomusicology
Brittany Chase holds a B.A. from Vanderbilt University and a master of music in ethnomusicology from the University of Florida, where she focused on American popular music and contemporary Christian music.
While at Vanderbilt, she was a four-year member of the Spirit of Gold Marching Band and its service organization, Tau Beta Sigma.
In addition to being a senior musicology lecturer, Chase also serves as the assistant dean for non-degree programs at the Blair School of Music.
Student Comments
“A really interesting class, and her passion for the subject made it even more enjoyable.”
“I loved the history of hip hop. She’s super friendly and helpful and the lectures are super interesting.”
“This is probably my favorite class I’ve taken in college. I feel like I learned a lot!”