Prof. Jason Rawls—better known asJ Rawls—is a music producer and DJ born and raised in Columbus, Ohio.
He’s worked with an impressive roster of hip-hop artists, including Talib Kweli and Mos Def (Yasiin Bey) in their work as Black Star.
He’s also turned his passion for hip-hop culture into a career in academia. He earned an Educational Doctorate from Ohio University and now teaches courses like “The Art and Politics of Hip-Hop” at the Ohio State University.
J Rawls talks with Hanif about digging in the crates, looking for new sounds, and bringing turntables into the classroom.
Music from J Rawls heard in this episode can be found here.
Funding for Small Joys with Hanif Abdurraqib is provided by The Columbus Foundation and the and the Greater Columbus Arts Council.