–submitted by Kevin Hoffman
Professor Alexander Shashko of UW Madison and a lecturer in African American history, gave an illuminating overview of the exceptional and significant impact Black art, and music in particular, has had on American and world culture. From the times of the enslaved to the present-day Black music in its various forms (Gospel, Blues, Jazz, Soul, Funk and more) is the communication medium that expressed hope, survival, innovation, identity, joy and greatness through and between generations. If we want to understand the world and young people and what they are experiencing, Professor Shashko urge us to listen to contemporary music – not just the melody but especially the words and what they are saying.
If you missed our meeting this week, you can watch the video here: https://youtu.be/hfpOSng1TVY.
Rotary Club of Madison, Wisconsin 