The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy

The Harlem Renaissance was not merely a moment. It was a movement, a meditation, a declaration that Black life, Black art, Black thought, and Black being would no longer be bound by the narrow scripts of a nation unsure of its own democracy. In this episode, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores the Harlem Renaissance as early 20th century Afro-modernism, a transformative period when Black people dared to ask: Who are we beyond the shadow of slavery? Who are we beyond imposed scripts? Who are we when we name ourselves? The New Negro Movement emerged as both a political and philosophical reorientation. It was not merely about rights, though it demanded them. It was about redefinition, replacing the old Negro (a figure fabricated by white supremacist imagination) with a self-determined subject who would speak, create, think, and act on their own terms. The Harlem Renaissance was the aesthetic and cultural expression of this deeper movement, the New Negro's heartbeat made audible. Dr. Rabaka examines literary Afro-modernism through the work of Zora Neale Hurston, who wrote with the rhythms of the South and captured Black folk life with dignity and depth, Claude McKay, who gave us defiance in verse, and Langston Hughes, who sang the blues on the page and made poetry move like jazz. These writers refused respectability politics and embraced Blackness in all its complexity. See all show notes and The Harlem Renaissance playlist

"Five years rooted in history, five years reaching toward freedom—this is the work, this is the cause." — Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this special anniversary episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka reflects on the first five years of The Center for African and African American Studies/The CAAAS at the University of Colorado Boulder. What began as a vision has become a dynamic and evolving center grounded in research, artistic expression, and community engagement. This episode traces the origins of the center, from years of advocacy to its founding in 2021, shaped by broader movements for justice and collective action. It highlights the center's core pillars as a research hub, an arts space, and a home for building the Beloved Community. Through these efforts, The CAAAS has cultivated intellectual communities, supported creative work, and created pathways for students, artists, and community members to connect and collaborate. Featuring a powerful interview conducted by KGNU, the episode also explores the impact of a historic $2 million investment from university leadership. This commitment represents not only institutional support, but a shared belief in the center's mission to expand access, foster dialogue, and build bridges across communities. At its heart, this episode is about more than looking back. It is about looking forward. It asks what it means to build institutions that do more than exist, institutions that actively transform. It invites listeners to reflect on the role of Black Studies in shaping a more just and inclusive future, and on the responsibility we all share in that work. As Dr. Rabaka reminds us throughout the episode, the Beloved Community is not an abstract ideal. It is a daily practice rooted in inclusion, creativity, and collective care. See all show notes and articles on The CAAAS on our website

This special episode of The Cause brings listeners to a powerful moment of remembrance held on February 16, 2026, marking the installation of a Bench by the Road through the Toni Morrison Society in honor of Dr. Charles Nilon and Mrs. Mildred Nilon. More than a commemorative event, this gathering stands as a public act of memory, recognition, and responsibility. The bench, simple in form yet profound in meaning, invites reflection on the long and often unrecognized history of Black intellectual life at the University of Colorado Boulder. Dr. Charles Nilon, the university's first Black professor, played a foundational role in establishing the Black Studies program in 1969, helping to carve out intellectual space where none previously existed. Mrs. Mildred Nilon, the university's first Black librarian, expanded access to knowledge and ensured that the archive could speak where it had too often been silent. Together, their work helped lay the foundation for what would become a thriving and evolving field of study grounded in truth, inclusion, and transformation. Featuring remarks from Chancellor Justin Schwartz and a powerful reflection from Dr. Reiland Rabaka, this episode moves from memory to movement, asking listeners not only to honor the past but to carry its lessons forward. It reminds us that Black Studies is not a static discipline, but a living practice rooted in struggle, shaped by community, and sustained through action. This episode also highlights the broader significance of the Bench by the Road Project, which creates spaces for public memory and acknowledges histories that have too often gone unmarked. See all show notes on our website

In this episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores the feminist art movement as a vital site of resistance, cultural production, and social transformation. Moving across historical moments and artistic traditions, this conversation examines how feminist artists have challenged exclusion, disrupted dominant narratives, and redefined the boundaries of representation. Grounded in Black feminist thought and broader feminist traditions, the episode highlights how art becomes a powerful medium for confronting systems of power while creating new possibilities for visibility, voice, and agency. Dr. Rabaka situates the feminist art movement within ongoing struggles for justice, asking listeners to consider how creative expression not only reflects society but actively participates in reshaping it. See full show notes and the Feminist Movement playlist

What is Women's Liberation? It is more than a slogan, more than a season, more than a symbolic seat at a table built by patriarchy. Women's liberation is the radical reimagining of the world itself. It is the audacious assertion that women are not property, not afterthought, not footnotes to male ambition, but full human beings endowed with intellect, imagination, agency, and authority. In this essential episode, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores the history, philosophy, and ongoing legacy of the Women's Liberation Movement. The episode traces how the movement redefined freedom, not only in law and policy but in homes, workplaces, classrooms, and cultural life. What did it mean to declare that "the personal is political"? How did second-wave feminism expand earlier women's rights struggles? And why did many non-White women challenge mainstream feminism for failing to address the intertwined realities of race, class, and sexuality? The Women's Liberation Movement emerged in the late 1960s as a radical wing of second-wave feminism. While earlier movements centered on securing the vote, the Women's Liberation Movement insisted that oppression did not end at the ballot. It lived in the workplace, in the home, in the bedroom, and in culture where women were objectified and infantilized. See full show notes and the curated playlist on our website 

What is Afrofuturism, and why does it matter now? In this episode, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores Afrofuturism as more than a cultural trend. It is a philosophy of freedom, a political imagination, and a practice of worldmaking rooted in the Black Freedom Struggle. It is what happens when Black artists, thinkers, and communities refuse the lie that the future belongs to someone else. The future has never been neutral. For Black people across Africa and the African diaspora, the future has often been treated as something they were not supposed to have, not supposed to inherit, not supposed to build, not supposed to dream. But they did, they do, they will. Dr. Rabaka traces Afrofuturism's evolution from the Harlem Renaissance to the Black Arts Movement to Hip Hop, examining key figures who shaped Afrofuturist thought: Sun Ra's cosmic jazz and ontological philosophy, George Clinton and Parliament/Funkadelic's funk futurism, Octavia E. Butler's survival ethics and speculative realism, Samuel R. Delany's expansion of the genre's philosophical range, Kodwo Eshun's theory of time as struggle, Alondra Nelson's intellectual infrastructure building, Drexciya's reimagining of the Middle Passage, Janelle Monáe's android narratives and queer futurity, and Wangechi Mutu's visual philosophy of embodiment. See all of our shownotes and our specially curated playlist on our website

"If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated." — Dr. Carter G. Woodson In 2026, we mark 100 years of Black History Month. One hundred years of intentional remembering, rigorous study, and collective struggle around Black life and Black humanity. One hundred years of insisting that Black history is not a footnote to American history but central, foundational, and indispensable. In this special centennial episode, Dr. Reiland Rabaka pays tribute to Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the historian and activist who founded Negro History Week in 1926. Born in 1875 to formerly enslaved parents, Woodson understood that the erasure of Black history was strategic and political. He believed that a people cut off from their past are easier to dominate in the present and to deny a future. Dr. Rabaka explores how Negro History Week evolved into Black History Month by 1976, reflecting broader cultural shifts including the Civil Rights Movement, the Black Power Movement, and global decolonization. The shift from "Negro" to "Black" reflected a reclamation of identity, dignity, and power. This episode examines four essential questions: What is Black History Month and where did it come from? Why does it matter for anyone committed to justice and democracy? Why is 2026 such a consequential year? And why does Black History Month remain urgently relevant in the 21st century? Dr. Rabaka makes clear that Black History Month is for anyone who believes American history should be told honestly. To study Black history is to study the unfinished project of American democracy and to learn how ordinary people forced extraordinary change. The episode features an original poem, "Sankofa and the Mathematics of Survival," exploring the Akan principle from Ghana, West Africa. Sankofa teaches that knowledge is cumulative, wisdom is layered, and forgetting is dangerous. It means critical retrieval, ethical remembrance, and purposeful return in service of collective renewal. As we mark this centennial, Dr. Rabaka confronts the danger of misremembering: nostalgia without commitment, reverence without responsibility. The struggles of countless ancestors were not meant to be admired. They were meant to be enacted. See the full show notes and the Black History Month playlist on our website.

Episode Date: January 29, 2026 "The danger of the 'I Have a Dream' speech is not that it is remembered, but that it is remembered incorrectly. It is misremembered. The danger is nostalgia without commitment, reverence without responsibility. Dr. King's dream was not meant to be admired. It was meant to be enacted." - Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this concluding episode of our two-part series, Dr. Reiland Rabaka returns to one of the most quoted speeches in American history, but this time with sharper questions and deeper listening. What happens when a radical call for justice gets remembered without its demands? What did Martin Luther King Jr. actually say on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on August 28, 1963, and what have we chosen to forget? Dr. Rabaka explores how King's masterful use of language (anaphora, metaphor, allusion, imagery, and symbol) expanded our collective capacity to imagine the Beloved Community. He examines how King used the speech to bring together people across lines of race, class, religion, region, and politics, while never diluting his demands for structural change. Through historical context, cultural analysis, and powerful poetic reflection, this episode reminds us that the Beloved Community was never meant to be an abstraction or a metaphor. It was, and remains, a call to action. The episode also reflects on the essential role of music, memory, and Black cultural traditions in sustaining movements for change across generations. From spirituals to freedom songs, from gospel to hip hop, music has functioned as protest, prayer, pedagogy, and prophecy. Dr. Rabaka offers an original poem, "We Dreamed of a World," as a contemporary response to King's vision, translating the ideals and imagery of the "I Have a Dream" speech into poetic form for the 21st century. This episode confronts a challenge that belongs to all of us: Why is it not enough to quote the speech, but necessary to build on Dr. King's conception of the Beloved Community today? Because a dream deferred can become a dream denied unless it is made real. See show notes and a special curated playlist

"The Beloved Community is not a place we arrive at, but a practice we embody in relationship with one another." - Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this first part of our January series, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores the meaning, origins, and practical demands of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision for the Beloved Community. Far from an abstract ideal, the Beloved Community represents a way of being and acting in the world that places justice, love, care, and collective responsibility at the center of democratic life. Dr. Rabaka situates this vision within historical struggles for freedom, Black intellectual traditions, spiritual commitments toward community care, and democratic practice. He invites listeners to consider the Beloved Community not as a distant destination, but as a practice of relationship and responsibility that begins here and now. This episode is connected to the newly launched Beloved Community Program: The CAAAS's Social Outreach, Community Engagement, and Public Education Arm, an initiative that extends The Center for African and African American Studies/The CAAAS mission beyond the academy and into broader community life, centering shared inquiry, cultural education, and social engagement rooted in justice and collective care. This Part I release is paired with a specially curated Beloved Community playlist, designed as a seasonal and ongoing accompaniment for reflection, learning, and action. See show notes and a special curated playlist

"Kwanzaa tells us we are the harvest our ancestors dreamed of and the seeds of new worlds not yet born." - Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this powerful and timely episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka offers a deeply rooted meditation on Kwanzaa as a cultural practice, a philosophical framework, and a living tradition born from the Black Freedom Movement. More than a holiday, Kwanzaa emerges here as a week long ritual of remembrance, reflection, and renewal that affirms African and African diasporic dignity, creativity, and collective responsibility. Drawing on history, music, art, and political struggle, Dr. Rabaka explores the origins of Kwanzaa and its continued relevance in a world marked by division, inequality, and democratic uncertainty. At the heart of the celebration are the Nguzo Saba, the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa, which serve as ethical guides for community building and cultural restoration. This episode invites listeners to engage Kwanzaa not only as a seasonal observance, but as a way of being rooted in intention, memory, and collective possibility. Explore the curated Kwanzaa playlist and show notes, and join us in carrying these principles beyond the candles and into everyday practice.

In The Women's Suffrage Movement, Dr. Rabaka lifts up the intertwined histories of women's rights, abolitionism, racial justice, and democratic reform. This episode serves as a companion to Episode 23, The Abolitionist Movement, deepening our understanding of how these movements shaped one another. The episode examines the evolution of suffrage organizing, the contributions of Black women's clubs, the roles of Indigenous, Latina, and Asian American women, and the limits of the Nineteenth Amendment, which granted women the right to vote while leaving many women of color disenfranchised for another half century. As Dr. Rabaka reflects: "To understand the Women's Suffrage Movement is to understand that the struggle for voting rights has always been a struggle over who counts as fully human in our democracy." This episode contextualizes the victories, challenges, and unfinished work of women's activism, reminding us why this history matters now more than ever. View our show notes page and see our Women's Suffrage Playlist

  "The abolitionists were the first to teach us that freedom must be shared, that justice must be collective, and that allyship is not performance but participation." - Dr. Reiland Rabaka Episode 23 of The Cause Podcast takes listeners deep into the heart of The Abolitionist Movement, exploring how the fight to end slavery laid the foundation for modern anti-racism, civil rights, and contemporary struggles for human dignity and liberation. Dr. Reiland Rabaka traces the intellectual, spiritual, and political roots of abolition, emphasizing the movement's radical insistence on equality and the shared responsibility of all people—across race, gender, and region—to dismantle racist systems. He highlights how abolitionists showed the world that allyship is not a passive stance but a commitment to action, sacrifice, and solidarity. Dr. Rabaka connects these historical figures to today's conversations on social justice, emphasizing how their ideas about resistance, freedom, community, and collective liberation continue to shape activism across the United States and the Global South. See our show notes page and the Abolitionist Playlist

In this powerful conversation, Dr. Reiland Rabaka is joined by DaWon Baker, CU Boulder's Associate Athletic Director for Impact & Strategic Engagement, along with three CU Boulder students and student-athletes who recently attended the 2025 Black Student Athlete Summit in Chicago. Together, they share what it means to be part of a national gathering that celebrates Black excellence, amplifies voices, and addresses the challenges and opportunities facing Black students at predominantly white institutions. The guests reflect on their experiences at the summit. Discussing community, leadership, identity, and what it means to bring their authentic selves into academic and athletic spaces. They talk about the importance of mentorship and representation, and how initiatives like the summit create networks of support that extend beyond sports or campus life. DaWon Baker frames the discussion around purpose and belonging, emphasizing how athletics can serve as a bridge to broader conversations about equity, access, and social change. As he notes, "We're not just talking about performance. We're talking about purpose. These students are building community, shaping culture, and defining what leadership looks like for a new generation." See show notes, photos and a playlist on our website.

In this episode of The Cause Podcast, Dr. Reiland Rabaka speaks with State Representative Junie Joseph, a dynamic legislator representing Colorado's District 10. Born in Haiti and now serving in the Colorado General Assembly, Representative Joseph shares her remarkable journey of resilience, civic engagement, and community-centered leadership. The discussion explores themes of representation, equity, and belonging, how her lived experience as an immigrant and woman of color informs her approach to policymaking and advocacy. Dr. Rabaka and Rep. Joseph also reflect on the role of education, activism, and mentorship in shaping a more inclusive democracy. Their conversation highlights how stories like Joseph's are vital to understanding modern movements for justice and empowerment, and why representation matters not just in politics, but in every sphere of society. Listen on Radio 1190 KVCU every other Thursday at 7 a.m., or stream now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, or wherever you get your podcasts. See all show notes and photos of the recording on our website.

Episode Date: October 9, 2025 "The Global South is not just geography—it's a shared story of survival, solidarity, and hope." - Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this powerful episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores The Global South—not just as a place, but as a living, breathing movement for liberation. Through stories of art, activism, and resistance, Dr. Rabaka connects the histories of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, revealing how centuries of colonialism have shaped today's struggles for justice and self-determination. Drawing inspiration from thinkers like bell hooks, Angela Davis, Assata Shakur, and Frantz Fanon, Dr. Rabaka examines how women and men across the Global South have used culture, music, and community to challenge systems of oppression and imagine freer futures. Their ideas continue to shape movements for human rights, gender equality, and environmental justice today. Se all shownotes and listen to our Global South playlist with a special note from Dr. Rabaka on our website.

Episode Date: September 25, 2025 "Decolonization is not simply political. It is also cultural and musical. We can decolonize our minds, our art, and our institutions as we imagine a world rooted in justice, peace, and love." — Dr. Reiland Rabaka In Episode 19 of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka takes us deep into the meaning and urgency of Decolonization. Far more than a political project, decolonization encompasses cultural, spiritual, and musical transformations. It is about dismantling oppressive systems while reclaiming knowledge, heritage, and self-determination. Dr. Rabaka draws on the powerful legacies of thinkers and activists like Frantz Fanon and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o, whose groundbreaking works called for decolonizing the mind, language, and cultural identity. He also highlights the role of musicians such as Fela Kuti, whose Afrobeat rhythms became a global soundtrack of resistance, and organizations like the Black Consciousness Movement, which connected struggles for freedom across Africa and beyond. This episode asks us to consider how the echoes of colonialism shape our world today and how communities continue to resist, reimagine, and rebuild. With music, history, and critical thought, Dr. Rabaka shows that decolonization is not a relic of the past but a living struggle that challenges us to envision new possibilities for justice and liberation. See all show notes and our Decolonization playlist on our website.

"Social justice is not charity, it's not something we give away when it's convenient—it's about transforming the very structures of society so that everyone can thrive." – Dr. Reiland Rabaka In Episode 18 of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, we conclude our Justice Series with a powerful exploration of Social Justice. Dr. Reiland Rabaka examines how movements for equity, access, participation, and human dignity are essential to building a truly democratic society. This episode brings into focus the historical struggles and the ongoing fight to ensure that marginalized communities are not only seen but fully empowered. Dr. Rabaka draws connections between cultural activism, civil rights traditions, and present-day movements for justice, challenging listeners to rethink what fairness and equality mean in practice. Whether you've been following from the beginning of the Justice Series—Environmental Justice (Ep. 16) and Food Justice (Ep. 17), or are joining us for the first time, this conversation highlights the transformative power of collective action and the deep moral imperative to center human rights and dignity. Tune in and be part of the dialogue that seeks not only to understand history but to shape a more equitable future. 🎧 Listen now on all major podcast platforms or catch us on Radio 1190 (KVCU) every other Thursday at 7 a.m. See all show notes and listen to our Social Justice playlist on our website

In Episode 17 of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka turns his attention to the politics of the plate—food justice. This episode digs deep into how access to healthy, affordable food is tied to democracy, power, and equality. From the grassroots brilliance of Ron Finley, the "Gangsta Gardener" of Los Angeles, to Fannie Lou Hamer's Freedom Farm Cooperative, the legacy of Karen Washington's urban farming leadership, and the academic rigor of Dr. Robert Bullard, food justice is framed as much more than nutrition—it's a fight for equity, self-determination, and community survival. Dr. Rabaka unpacks how "food deserts," or what he insists should be called food apartheid, shape lives and communities. This episode challenges us to see food not as charity, but as a human right and a cornerstone of social justice movements. See all show notes and our playlist for this episode on our website. Find us also on all major podcast platforms or catch us on Radio 1190 (KVCU) every other Thursday at 7 a.m.

"Environmental justice is about more than saving the planet—it's about saving people, especially those who've been left out of the conversation for far too long." — Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this episode, Dr. Rabaka examines the intersection of environmentalism, social justice, and the fight for equality. This powerful conversation unpacks how environmental issues disproportionately impact marginalized communities—and why that matters for democracy. From climate change and pollution to food insecurity and clean water access, this episode challenges us to see environmental activism as inseparable from human rights. 🎧 Also listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Podcasts, YouTube, or on our Episodes page. 📻 Tune in to Radio 1190 (92.9 FM) every other Thursday at 7 a.m. to hear The Cause on the air. See brief profiles of the people profiled on this episode as well as a Spotify playlist on our website. 

"When we talk about radical democracy, we're not talking about partisan politics—we're talking about people power. We're talking about reimagining democracy so it's not just something we vote for, but something we live every single day." — Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this powerful episode of The Cause, Dr. Reiland Rabaka dives deep into the roots, meanings, and modern-day relevance of radical democracy. From grassroots movements to global calls for justice, this conversation explores how democracy can be reshaped through community action, cultural expression, and music. Drawing on historical examples and present-day challenges, Dr. Rabaka connects the dots between radical thought, revolutionary organizing, and the cultural voices that have always pushed democracy toward its truest potential. Whether through protest songs or street-level activism, this episode shines a spotlight on the people who turn ideals into action. See all show notes and playlist for this episode  

What does it really mean to fight for peace? In this episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores the radical legacy of pacifism and nonviolent resistance in African American history and beyond. From W.E.B. Du Bois and Martin Luther King Jr. to Bayard Rustin and Angela Davis, Dr. Rabaka brings forward voices that have imagined—and embodied—a different way of doing justice work. With characteristic insight and honesty, Dr. Rabaka unpacks the philosophical roots of nonviolence, the misunderstandings surrounding pacifism, and its continued urgency in a world increasingly shaped by violence and division. "To be deeply and profoundly committed to pacifism means that you're actually active — on the move, fighting for peace. I know it's ironic, but sometimes we have to be willing to fight nonviolently, yet fighting nonetheless, for peace." This episode challenges us to rethink activism, discipline, and courage—and to reflect on what kind of community we're truly trying to build. See our website for more details

In this powerful closing chapter of our Hip Hop Studies series, Dr. Reiland Rabaka invites us to step beyond the music and into the deeper meaning of hip hop as a worldwide movement for change. While most people think of hip hop as just beats and rhymes, Dr. Rabaka challenges us to see it as something much larger: a living, breathing social movement rooted in community, activism, and the ongoing fight for justice. He explores how hip hop emerged from the margins — born in the Bronx, nurtured in neighborhoods often overlooked or deliberately neglected — and transformed into a global force that now shapes culture, politics, and social consciousness around the world. "Rap music and hip hop culture are merely the tools… if they can be used to degrade and destroy, then they can also be used to elevate and educate." — Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this episode, we dig into how artists used — and continue to use — hip hop to fight oppression, tell untold stories, and create space for community healing and imagination. We discuss the movement's connections to earlier Black freedom struggles, and how it has become an archive of resistance, resilience, and radical possibility. Whether you're a lifelong fan of hip hop or just beginning to understand its power, this conversation will expand your view of what music can do — and what it can mean. See more show notes and see our customized playlist for Episode 13 on our website.

The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy with Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores how music and culture inspire movements for justice and social change. Hosted by Dr. Reiland Rabaka — Professor of African, African American, and Caribbean Studies, and Founding Director of The Center for African and African American Studies (The CAAAS) at the University of Colorado Boulder — each episode uncovers the stories, rhythms, and voices that shape our world, from civil rights anthems to the global force of hip hop.

"These artists weren't just entertainers—they were educators, cultural critics, and community historians." — Dr. Reiland Rabaka In Part 2 of our Hip Hop Studies series, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores the evolution and impact of political and gangsta rap—two vital branches of hip hop that challenged systems, spotlighted injustice, and reshaped public dialogue around race, poverty, policing, and power. This episode takes listeners through the lineage of resistance: from the firebrand urgency of Public Enemy, the revolutionary clarity of Queen Latifah, and the hard-hitting realism of N.W.A., to the complex genius of Ice Cube, Lauryn Hill, and many others. Dr. Rabaka draws deep historical connections—linking the lyrical activism of these artists to the long tradition of Black cultural expression as political protest. Whether confronting police brutality, amplifying community struggles, or pushing back on respectability politics, these artists made space for Black truth on a global stage—often at great personal cost. Episode 12 is a tribute to the fearless voices of hip hop who spoke not just to us, but for us. Listen to the Hip Hop Studies playlist on our webiste.

"Rap is something you do—hip hop is something you live." — Dr. Reiland Rabaka In Episode 11 of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka launches our new Hip Hop Studies series with a powerful exploration of the cultural, political, and historical foundations of hip hop. This episode traces the origins of hip hop from its roots in the Bronx to its connections with African griots, Black oral traditions, and resistance movements. Dr. Rabaka unpacks the five core elements of hip hop—MCing, DJing, breakdancing, graffiti, and knowledge—and how each one emerged as a form of survival, expression, and cultural genius. Far from just entertainment, hip hop is framed here as a living philosophy, a way of life forged in the heat of economic exclusion, community creativity, and Black cultural inheritance. Catch the broadcast on Radio 1190 KVCU every other Tuesday at 7 a.m. Explore the curated playlist that complements this episode's themes This is part one of a multi-episode deep dive—Hip Hop Studies begins here. See all shownotes and a playlist on our website.

"The Beloved Community is about us putting all of our lights together—about transforming ourselves and transforming this world." — Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this milestone 10th episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka reflects deeply on one of his greatest causes: The Beloved Community. Tracing its philosophical roots from Josiah Royce to Howard Thurman to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rabaka offers his own powerful remix for the 21st century—one grounded in radical inclusivity, environmental justice, gender equity, and transformative love. Dr. Rabaka challenges listeners to move beyond buzzwords and build a real-world framework where everyone is respected, protected, and welcomed. With poetic passion, historical insight, and a powerful personal vision, he asks: What will it take to make the dream of the Beloved Community a reality? 📻 And don't forget—you can now also hear us every other Tuesday at 7 a.m. on Radio 1190 KVCU (92.9 FM in Boulder). See shownotes and a playlist on The Beloved Community.

"When the world would not listen to what we say, we sang." – Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this powerful episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores the deep cultural, spiritual, and political roots of Civil Rights Music—from the sacred sounds of the Black church to the anthems that echoed through marches, protests, and mass meetings. Drawing connections between gospel, rhythm & blues, rock & roll, and freedom songs, Dr. Rabaka illustrates how music served not only as inspiration but as a vital form of protest and communication when other means were denied. He highlights how artists like Mahalia Jackson, Nina Simone, Sam Cooke, and Aretha Franklin helped craft a soundtrack of resistance—songs that gave voice to struggle, hope, and liberation. And catch this episode airing next week on Radio 1190 KVCU—Thursdays at 7 a.m. See show notes and playlist on our website.

"Rock & roll wasn't just about rebellion—it was about revolution. It was young, it was Black, and it was bold enough to break down barriers." – Dr. Reiland Rabaka In this episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores how rock & roll helped shape the Civil Rights Movement and American democracy itself. From its deep roots in gospel and rhythm & blues to its explosive rise in the 1950s and '60s, rock & roll became more than music—it was a cultural force for integration, resistance, and youth rebellion. Dr. Rabaka highlights the often-overlooked Black artists who laid the foundation for the genre, including Chuck Berry, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Little Richard, and Fats Domino. These trailblazers challenged segregation not only with their sound, but with their presence—defying racial barriers and inspiring both Black and white audiences in a deeply divided America. 🎧 Visit our website for playlist and show notes

In Part 2 of our conversation with legendary blues musician Otis Taylor, we dive deeper into his artistic journey, his distinctive trance blues style, and the historical and cultural significance of his work. Taylor shares personal stories about the power of storytelling through music, the African roots of the banjo, and how his music continues to challenge narratives and inspire change. 🎧 Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on history, identity, and the power of the blues. The Cause is available now on all major podcast platforms! See more show notes along The Breakdown with recommendations links on related books and documentaries See also: Photos from the recording, Playlist and Part 1 of this episode

Rhythm and Blues wasn't just a genre—it was a powerful force in the fight for civil rights. In this episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores how R&B artists used their music to challenge injustice, inspire activism, and uplift communities during one of the most pivotal times in American history. From Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come" to James Brown's "Say It Loud – I'm Black and I'm Proud", R&B legends shaped the movement with anthems of hope, resistance, and empowerment. These songs provided a voice for those demanding change, bridging the gap between the struggle and the soundtrack that carried it forward. Join us as we uncover the deep connection between music and activism, and how these iconic artists helped shape the course of history—one song at a time. See all of the shownotes and playlists on our website: https://www.colorado.edu/center/caaas/podcast/episodes/ep-7-rhythm-and-blues-and-civil-rights-movement

How did Black women use music to fight for freedom? In this episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka explores the themes of his recent book, Black Women's Liberation Movement Music: Soul Sisters, Black Feminist Funksters, and Afro-Disco Divas. From the raw soul of Aretha Franklin to the boundary-pushing funk of Betty Davis, this episode highlights the Black women artists who used music as a tool for activism, empowerment, and cultural transformation. 🎧 Listen now and explore the sounds of liberation.  See the Spotify playlist and The Breakdown on our website: https://www.colorado.edu/center/caaas/podcast/episodes/ep-6-black-womens-liberation-movement-music-overview-author

"It is certain, in any case, that ignorance, allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have." -James Baldwin. What does it mean to be an ally? More importantly, what does it mean to be an active ally? In this episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka takes a deep dive into the meaning of allyship—breaking down the difference between reactive and proactive allies, the role of self-transformation in social change, and the need for radical, authentic allyship in dismantling systems of oppression. Through historical context, personal insights, and a powerful spoken-word piece, this episode challenges us all to go beyond performative support and commit to meaningful action. See our show notes

Welcome to The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy with Dr. Reiland Rabaka. In this inaugural episode, Dr. Rabaka introduces listeners to the heart and soul of the podcast—a space dedicated to exploring profound causes like social justice, racial equality, and cultural empowerment through the lens of music and historical dialogue. Join us as we delve into the intersection of art, activism, and societal transformation. With a focus on engaging conversations and consciousness-raising, The Cause invites you to think critically about the pressing issues of our time and discover how music can be a powerful tool for change. Whether discussing the roots of hip hop or the evolution of democracy, each episode promises to inspire and challenge your perspectives. Tune in for thought-provoking discussions, dynamic guests, and a journey that connects past struggles with present movements, aiming for a more equitable future. Subscribe now and join the conversation!

In this two-part special of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka sits down with renowned blues musician Otis Taylor for an intimate and dynamic conversation. In Part 1, they explore Taylor's journey into music, his unique style, and his deep ties to African American history and culture. Taylor shares stories about his upbringing, his influences, and how he's used his music to tell powerful, often untold, stories. From his pioneering work with the banjo to his reflections on the cultural significance of his music, this episode offers listeners a rare glimpse into the mind of a musical innovator who blends the personal with the political. Join us as we dive into the rich tapestry of Taylor's life, setting the stage for an even deeper exploration in Part 2. See photos of the recording and an Otis Taylor playlist, visit The CAAAS website: https://www.colorado.edu/center/caaas/podcast/episodes/ep-3-interview-otis-taylor-musician-pioneer-trance-blues-and-banjo-part-1 Stay tuned for Part 2, where the conversation continues with more insights and stories from Otis Taylor's remarkable career.

In the second episode of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, Dr. Reiland Rabaka takes us deep into the rhythmic roots of his latest book, The Funk Movement: Music, Culture, and Politics. This episode explores how funk music became a vital soundtrack to the Black Power movement, transcending mere entertainment to embody a cultural and political revolution. Dr. Rabaka highlights the unsung contributions of female funk icons like Chaka Khan and Betty Davis, examining their role in what he describes as "black feminist funk." He delves into the transformative power of funk, from its aesthetic influences to its role in shaping African American identity and resistance. With insights into the intersection of music and social movements, this episode offers a comprehensive introduction to funk studies and its profound impact on both past and present. Join us as we groove through history, uncovering the sound of a movement that continues to resonate in the fight for racial and cultural liberation.