Alumni Speaker Series

Hip hop music producer and artist Isaac Williams '04 enthralled the Hillside community today as a lunch program speaker in the Alumni Speaker Series, as he gave some insight into the history of hip hop culture and rap. He also praised fellow artists seeking to transcend the shallow materialism of some strains of that music, by celebrating that which is more profound.

Williams demonstrated some of his own lyricism throughout his presentation, as he educated students and faculty about the "collective culture" of hip hop. While many commonly associate it with African American music and some of the big name artists who've popularized the genre, Williams explained that the idea of hip hop is much bigger. "It's not just the music, but the clothing, the breakdancing, graffiti...it's all hip hop. Hip hop is defined as the 'knowledge movement.' Both hip hop and rap are circling back to more conscious lyrics." He gave the example of Macklemore, the Seattle artist who has gained a huge following with his provocative, positive lyrics questioning social mores and promoting compassion and respect. 

Williams explained that in his own music, he has made a deliberate effort to communicate a positive message, and says that one might be surprised by how many people are eager to hear that.

He encouraged students to "work hard at everything you do, and never quit." He closed with, "Hillside is a place that changed my life," Williams declared. "If you can open up to the things that teachers are trying to give you, you will be better for it. I know I am."