Leading African American History Scholar to Speak at WSU

PULLMAN, Wash. – The relationship between freedom and jazz will be explored in a lecture at Washington State University by historian and author Robin D.G. Kelley. His talk, “‘Jazz and Freedom Go Hand in Hand’: Thelonius Monk Plays the ’60s,” will be presented today (March 20) at 5:30 p.m. in room 202 of the Smith Center for Undergraduate Education.

“Dr Kelley’s talk will surely inspire,” said David Leonard, assistant professor of comparative ethnic studies at WSU. “Kelley is an internationally known scholar who has been a leading voice within a number of fields; he is an amazing talent, with a passion for using history and popular culture to challenge conventional thought,” said Leonard.

Regarded as one of the country’s preeminent scholars in African American history, Kelley is professor of history and American studies and ethnicity at the University of Southern California. Previously Kelley was the William B. Ransford Professor of Cultural and Historical Studies at Columbia University.

Kelley earned his master’s degree in African history and doctorate in U.S. history from UCLA. Prior to his position at Columbia, he was chair of the history department and professor of history and Africana studies at New York University. At the University of Michigan, Kelley was a professor of history, African American studies and American culture.

Articles and books by Kelley are known for their accessibility. His list of publications includes the book “Hammer and Hoe: Alabama Communists During the Great Depression” (University of North Carolina Press, 1990) and the collection of essays “Race Rebels: Culture, Politics and the Black Working Class” (The Free Press, 1994). His next book, a biography of jazz great Thelonious Monk, will be called, “Thelonious: A Life.” 

“Anyone lucky enough to attend Kelley’s lecture can expect a dynamic and inspiring talk that brings awareness to the dynamic history of jazz as not simply an art form, but a source of inspiration, and dreaming,” said Leonard. “Dr. Kelley will surely bring to life the history of African American jazz, using music and his powerful analysis to challenge a new generation of artists and dreamers.”

A reception will precede Kelley’s lecture from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the conference room of the Department of Comparative Ethnic Studies, Wilson Hall 112B.

Dr. Robin D.G. Kelley. Photo by Lisa Gay Hamilton.