As roughly 150 students in “Sociology of Hip-Hop: Jay-Z” waited at 8 a.m. today for what they expected to be the last lecture of the semester from Professor Michael Eric Dyson, the professor paused after a few minutes to take a phone call.
On the line was the subject of their semester of study, rap artist and business mogul Jay-Z.
The musician spoke with Dyson through a projected speakerphone for an hour, discussing everything from his views on religion to the current state of Hip-Hop.
Dyson has utilized this guest lecturer/telephone technique recently, having telephoned rap artists Common, Lupe Fiasco and J. Cole over the last two weeks to supplement his lecture.
The course, which concluded its second semester at Georgetown, has received attention from national media for its unique subject matter. Students dissect everything about the rap icon, from his musical catalogue and books to his business philosophy and social significance.
Calling in from London, this was the first time Jay-Z appeared before the class. He mentioned the class during a performance of the “Watch the Throne” tour last year, and Dyson has expressed interest in bringing Jay-Z to campus on multiple occasions.
[…] Homer.” Dyson continues to offer the popular course, and Shawn Carter himself called in via speakerphone on the final day of class last […]