The Theology of American Popular Music (Religion, Social Movements, and Music)
HDS 2501
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
The course will examine contemporary Popular Music, the Spirituals, Blues, Jazz, Gospel, Rock, Pop, to Hip Hop Culture, and artists ranging from Earth Wind and Fire, Thelonius Monk, Nina Simone, The Beatles, Kirk Franklin to the "Artist" (Prince), Beyonce, Kendrick Lamar.
Here we will look at the intersections of religion, music, and social movements across diverse historical, cultural, and global contexts.
Discussions will center on the theological and artistic, cultural implications of these styles and traditions. The course may address topics such as music in religious activism and protest traditions; the role of sacred and secular sound in movements for racial, social, and political justice; global devotional performance practices; and the theological, ethical, and affective dimensions of musical expression in collective action. The course focus then places an emphasis on the dual nature of music as a cultural product, expressing artistic, social, political, and theological world views.
What does their art have to say about who you are in this world?
Class Notes
Additional details forthcoming.
Available for BTI Cross Registration
Available for Harvard Cross Registration
Christianity
Christianity
Non-Tradition Specific
