Dismantling the Ivory Tower

Episode 8: Versatile Victories with Marcus Lattimore

In this episode of 'Dismantling The Ivory Tower,' hosts Elijah Jagne and Dr. Clifford C. Meeks welcome Marcus Lattimore, a former top-ranked running back whose career took an unexpected turn into the realm of poetry. Once hailed as a football sensation, Lattimore shares his remarkable journey of transformation, exploring the interplay between athleticism, blackness, and masculinity. Reflecting on his life both on and off the field, he delves into how his experiences in football paved the way for his poetic expression, allowing him to challenge stereotypes and redefine his identity. Lattimore opens up about the therapeutic power of poetry in understanding and articulating his complex relationship with his past, his heritage, and his evolving self. In a candid discussion, he also addresses the stereotypes associated with athletes, particularly black male athletes, and how he navigates these perceptions while fostering a love for both his sports and literary passions. Join us for an intimate exploration of Marcus Lattimore's journey from gridiron glory to poetic contemplation, shedding light on the profound ways in which art and sport can intersect to shape personal and cultural narratives.

Episode 7: A Public Enemy's Perspective with Professor Griff

Join Elijah Jagne and Dr. Clifford C. Meeks on this exciting episode of 'Dismantling The Ivory Tower,' featuring the legendary Professor Griff of Public Enemy. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, Griff delves into the intricate process of creating Public Enemy's unique and influential sound, sharing how they harmoniously wove together creativity and inspiration. Reflecting on his career, Griff shares a personal story that encapsulates the true spirit of hip-hop. Looking to the future, he shares his vision for the genre's evolution in the next decade. Griff's multifaceted journey extends beyond music, with passions such as martial arts and public speaking. He discusses how these interests have fueled his musical creativity and influenced his approach to hip-hop. Drawing upon his military background, Griff also sheds light on how his experience in the U.S. Army shaped his role in Public Enemy, particularly his position as head of security. With insights from his martial arts discipline, Griff uncovers its impact on his musical journey and activism work. Tune in for a fascinating conversation that traverses the crossroads of music, activism, and personal experiences, guided by one of hip-hop's pioneering figures.

Episode 6: Beats, Bars, and Bridges with Olmeca

In this insightful episode of 'Dismantling The Ivory Tower,' Elijah Jagne and Dr. Clifford C. Meeks engage in a compelling conversation with Olmeca, a revered LatinX hip-hop artist. As we commemorate hip-hop's 50th anniversary, Olmeca reflects on the profound influence this genre and culture have had on his personal journey and music career. He shares the evolution of his artistic expression, shaped by hip hop's rich history and transformative power. As a LatinX artist in the ever-evolving hip-hop landscape, Olmeca explores his role and influence within this evolution, projecting a hopeful future for LatinX voices in the genre. Known for his potent blend of social justice themes and identity politics in his music, Olmeca discusses how hip hop serves as an impactful platform for addressing these issues. He also pays homage to his key hip-hop influences, sharing how they've evolved over the decades. Delving into his creative process, Olmeca offers a glimpse into how he masterfully intertwines his unique LatinX perspective with the diverse styles and cultures in hip-hop. Tune in for an enriching conversation that traverses the intersections of music, culture, and social justice.

Episode 5: Rhythmic Revolution with Jasiri X

In this episode of 'Dismantling The Ivory Tower,' hosts Elijah Jagne and Dr. Clifford C. Meeks sit down with renowned hip-hop artist and activist, Jasiri X. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip hop, Jasiri X delves into the evolution of the genre, its social impact, and its significant role in today's society. He reflects on early hip-hop influences that shaped his music and activism, providing a thoughtful analysis of how themes within the music have changed over the years. As a vocal advocate for using music as a platform for social issues, Jasiri X explores the dichotomy between hip-hop's roots in social commentary and its current representation in the commercial mainstream. Drawing from his experience as an artist and activist, he shares his insights on the future of hip-hop, envisioning its potential as a tool for social change in the next 50 years. In a thought-provoking discussion, Jasiri X also reveals his dream collaboration from the vast panorama of hip-hop's 50-year history, and why this alliance would send a powerful societal message. Tune in for an insightful journey through the intersecting worlds of hip-hop, activism, and social justice.

Episode 4: Scratching the Surface with Davey D and DJ Kuttin Kandi

Join hosts Elijah Jagne and Dr. Clifford C. Meeks for this captivating episode of 'Dismantling The Ivory Tower,' where we celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop with pioneering voices, DJ Kuttin Kandi and Davey D. Kandi, a trailblazing woman in the DJ scene, reflects on the evolution of hip-hop throughout her career and its prospective journey in the next 50 years. She also shares her unique perspective on the shifting gender dynamics in the DJ scene and the intersection of her Filipino heritage with her music and activism. Davey D, a renowned hip-hop journalist and DJ, takes us on a journey through the genre's most significant changes over the decades, highlighting pivotal moments and influential artists. He explores hip-hop's evolution as a powerful tool for social and political commentary, its impact on the societal landscape, and its future trajectory. This enlightening discussion also delves into the continually evolving DJing techniques, the influence of these changes on the genre, and how hip-hop has shaped and been shaped by conversations around social justice. Listen in for an enriching dialogue that intersects music, culture, and activism, through the lens of two revered figures in the hip-hop community.