March 5th 2024.
It's not every day that you get to learn from the father of the one and only Beyoncé, but Pepperdine University students are in for a treat this spring semester. Matthew Knowles, a well-respected music executive, entrepreneur, and educator, has joined forces with English and film professor Joi Carr to co-teach a course on the "African American Aesthetic Culture From Spirituals to Hip Hop".
Together, Knowles and Carr will take students on a journey through the rich history of African American music and its impact on society. From the days of slavery to the rise of modern-day hip-hop, the course will explore the resilience, hope, and faith of a group of people who have shaped the music industry in ways that many do not realize.
For Knowles, this course is more than just sharing his knowledge and expertise. It's about empowering young minds and promoting the value of education. "Knowledge is power," he believes, and he wants to equip students with the tools to succeed in their chosen fields.
Carr, who is equally passionate about the course's focus, believes that it is crucial to understand the contributions of African Americans to music in the United States. She emphasizes the importance of learning from history, especially in a country where there is still a lot of work to be done in terms of recognizing and celebrating diverse cultures.
One of the main goals of this course is to combat the miseducation surrounding African American history. As Knowles points out, there is a false narrative that needs to be corrected, especially as some states try to remove learning material that highlights the achievements of Black and diverse communities. "There's history, and then there's his story," he explains, "and it's essential to listen to both to understand the full picture."
Knowles is no stranger to the music industry, having worked with iconic names like Earth, Wind & Fire and Chaka Khan. He is most known for launching the careers of Destiny's Child and his daughter, Beyoncé. With over 100 award-winning, platinum, and gold albums under his belt, Knowles has sold over 500 million records globally.
It's a privilege to have such a respected and experienced figure like Knowles teaching at Pepperdine University. His passion for educating and empowering young people, combined with Carr's expertise, will undoubtedly make for an enlightening and inspiring course. By the end of the semester, students will have a deeper understanding of the significant contributions of African Americans to the music industry and their enduring impact on society.
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