Yale University Introduces Beyoncé Course

Yale University will introduce a course titled 'Beyoncé Makes History: Black Radical Tradition History, Culture, Theory & Politics Through Music' in Spring 2025, focusing on the cultural and political impact of Beyoncé from her 2013 self-titled album to her recent work, including 'Cowboy Carter'. Taught by Professor Daphne Brooks, the course aims to explore the intersection of Beyoncé's music with socio-political themes, Black feminist politics, and historical memory. Students will analyze her performances and contributions to movements like Black Lives Matter, utilizing her expansive repertoire as a lens for broader discussions on Black intellectual thought and activism. The course is part of a growing trend in academia to examine contemporary music icons, following similar classes on artists like Taylor Swift and Bob Dylan. Brooks expressed enthusiasm about teaching this class, citing Beyoncé's significant innovations and the relevance of her work in today's cultural discourse. This initiative reflects the increasing recognition of pop culture figures as critical subjects of academic study.