#21289
Mentioned in 2 episodes
A Little Devil in America
Book • 2021
In this book, Hanif Abdurraqib delves into the history and impact of Black performance in America.
He reflects on various artists and cultural moments, from William Henry Lane's minstrel dancing to Beyoncé's 2016 Super Bowl appearance and the TV show *Soul Train*.
The book blends social criticism, pop culture analysis, and autobiography, highlighting the contributions and struggles of Black performers.
Abdurraqib also explores themes such as Black anger, the exploitation of Black artists, and the intersection of love, hate, and violence in Black life.
The chapters are structured around personal and historical narratives, including his own experiences and reflections on figures like Josephine Baker and Aretha Franklin.
He reflects on various artists and cultural moments, from William Henry Lane's minstrel dancing to Beyoncé's 2016 Super Bowl appearance and the TV show *Soul Train*.
The book blends social criticism, pop culture analysis, and autobiography, highlighting the contributions and struggles of Black performers.
Abdurraqib also explores themes such as Black anger, the exploitation of Black artists, and the intersection of love, hate, and violence in Black life.
The chapters are structured around personal and historical narratives, including his own experiences and reflections on figures like Josephine Baker and Aretha Franklin.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 2 episodes
Mentioned by Hrishikesh Hirway as the author of several books, including 'They Can't Kill Us Until They Kill Us', 'Go Ahead in the Rain', 'notes to A Tribe Called Quest', and 'A Little Devil in America'.
28 snips
Key Change: Hanif Abdurraqib on The Clash
Mentioned by Sam Sanders for its insightful essays, particularly one about Beyoncé's Super Bowl performance.
One Hell of a Contradiction
Mentioned by 
Rund Abdelfatah as the author of a book of essays that includes his writing on Soul Train.
Rund Abdelfatah as the author of a book of essays that includes his writing on Soul Train.
Bonus: Soul Train
Recommended by 
Brené Brown as a lyrical, beautifully written, and stirring book exploring the connection between US history and Black performance.
Brené Brown as a lyrical, beautifully written, and stirring book exploring the connection between US history and Black performance.
Brené with Hanif Abdurraqib on Art, Culture, and Black Performance
