One of the most popular classes on Duke University’s campus is AAAS 132, known more commonly as Sampling Soul, taught by Dr. Mark Anthony Neal and 9th Wonder.

For the Fall 2011 semester, Sampling Soul will study how “Soul” has become a form of cultural expression. They will also add a piece in regards to sampling music and it’s implications to the culture. In past semesters, 9th Wonder has brought records and turntables into the classroom to show the students how today’s popular music includes samples of music from the past. 

Weekly class topics will include "Sampling Shawn Carter" and "Sampling The Post-Soul" (The R. Kelly re-mix).

Books that are required reading this Fall include Jay-Z: Essays on Hip Hop’s Philosopher King by Dr. Julius Bailey.

For more information about Dr. Neal and 9th Wonder’s Sampling Soul class, check out Dr. Neal’s blog. 

In Related News:

Dr. Neal Featured in XXL Article: "Homophobia In Hip Hop", in the July/August 2011 Issue.