Melvin Donalson

The Soul of Hip Hop

“When most scholars, critics and religious voices have taken a reductionist approach to Hip Hop culture and music, Dr. Daniel White Hodge reveals the complexity, spiritualism and inspiration that shape Hip Hop. As a Hip Hop pastor, Dr. Hodge successfully connects the transforming philosophies that exist between Christianity and Hip Hop theology. Insightfully, he underscores the distinctions between the commercialized lyrics and behavior that permeate mainstream media and the more consciousness-raising messages in the content and rhythms of grass-roots Hip Hop. Dr. Hodge boldly invites the reader to contextualize the life and activism of the biblical Jesus in order to appreciate the collective power and relevance of Hip Hop culture.”