Clark Atlanta University is in for an incredible surprise this fall. Hip-hop rapper and entrepreneur Tip “T.I.” Harris and Dr. Melva K Williams will be teaming up to teach a course called the “Business of Trap”.
“Innovative undergraduate course will mesh the history of trap music with the economics behind its meteoric rise to becoming a staple in 21st-century hip-hop.” According to Billboards.
On one hand, T.I. is known as one of the fathers of Trap music. His expertise and experience in the music industry over the years has allowed him to stay relevant. On the other hand, Williams is known in the higher education community. As an HBCU advocate and co-founder for the Higher Education Leadership Foundation. The pair is the perfect team for this opportunity.
“In higher education it is important that we challenge, empower and equip our students with the proper resources to excel,” said President George T. French Jr. “I believe the best way to do this is to understand their culture and create life-long experiences that will not only motivate our scholars but present them with opportunities to help them become globally competitive,” French said.
The upcoming course will cover the history of rap music, the economics behind it, and how it grew to become a 21st-century cultural movement.
“HBCUs have a vital role in our community and have managed to withstand even while being some of the most under-resourced institutions,” said T.I. in a statement. “Our national HBCUs continue to underscore the fact that we have always had to do more with less. I am excited to be partnering with Clark Atlanta University in my hometown – Atlanta.”
Congratulations to the University on the partnership!