Born To Use Mics: Michael Eric Dyson Breaks Down ‘Illmatic’
Classic songs,”Genesis” and “It Ain’t Hard To Tell” are currently being played in CD players, tape decks and iPods throughout the world. Labeled as one of the “Greatest Albums Of All Time” by countless hip-hop historians, journalists and publications, the five-mic album, Illmatic is finally being saluted and broken down – into a book written by college professor, motivational speaker and author, Michael Eric Dyson.
Often referred to as an “unauthorized biography” of hip-hop legend Nasir “Nas” Jones, the book is set for release on December 28, 2009. The anticipated reading evaluates the psychology of the Queensbridge emcee and is fused with reflections from influential hip-hop writers who’ve contributed to The Culture .
According to Amazon.com, Born To Use Mics:Reading Nas’ Illmatic is Dyson and Sohail Daulatzai bringing together “the brightest minds to reflect upon and engage one of the most incisive sets of songs ever laid down on wax.”
Dyson is currently a Sociology Professor at Georgetown University and is often considered a hip-hop scholar.
Dyson also wrote Holler If You Hear Me: Searching for Tupac Shakur and Know What I Mean?: Reflections on Hip-Hop.
Daulatzai is an assistant professor at the University of California and teaches Film and Media Studies, as well as African American Studies.
Need this ASAP – Michael Eric Dyson is nothing less than incredible – could listen to him speak 24/7.
~BL
I agree with Boss Lady wholeheartedly. Michael Eric Dyson is everything I aspire to be. Plus, the subject of this book is the debut album of my favorite rapper of all time! I’ve known about this book forever and have it wishlisted on Amazon. Can’t wait for this one!