Jay-Z is one step closer to becoming a professor.
The rapper and business mogul teamed up with Columbia University for a new lecture series spotlighting African American culture
MORE: Jay-Z faces backlash over NFL partnership as Kaepernick remains out of the leagueIn a press release, the university says the “'JAY-Z' Carter Lecture Series," is a new program that aims to honor "the New York City-born rapper, songwriter, entrepreneur and philanthropist."
Hova didn't miss his first class, which was held Tuesday, where he held an exclusive talk with students and faculty within the university's African American and African Diaspora Studies Department.
Columbia launched the Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter Lecture Series tonight with an unforgettable first conversation between @s_c_ and @jelani9 at #TheForum. @teamroc @rocnation @IRAASColumbiaU https://t.co/z9UDqajdVg pic.twitter.com/u7u2ET7aYz
— Columbia University (@Columbia) February 5, 2020
There, while discussing issues affecting the life and culture of African Americans, the rapper answered questions about his career and legacy in the music industry, along with his philanthropy.
Overall, Jay-Z aimed to spark an open conversation and said, "We can all dazzle each other with language" and added that he wants to "get down to the honesty of what's happening."
“These sort of conversations need to be had in a real way.” Introducing the Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter Lecture Series at Columbia University, with a spotlight on those who have made a significant impact on African-American culture. #JAYZ @Columbia @teamroc pic.twitter.com/hQVBmcAVxH
— Roc Nation (@RocNation) February 5, 2020
Columbia's chair of the African American and African Diaspora Studies Department, Farah Jasmine Griffin, said the new program "sits at the heart of our mission to create and sustain an intellectual community bridging scholarship, teaching and public life."
While Jay-Z was the first guest, other notable speakers will be "scholars and other noteworthy people who have made a major contribution" to African American culture.
The lecture is held at the university's Manhattanville campus at The Forum.
