Hip Deep
Hip Deep Fourteen years ago, with support from the NEH, we created Hip Deep, a subseries integrated into the overall Afropop Worldwide program offering. Hip Deep programs build on the techniques and format developed for Afropop Worldwide, but are enhanced by rigorous academic and field research that translates into higher production values. Every episode of Hip Deep actively involves leading humanities scholars to illuminate a wealth of history, culture, politics, ethnic and spiritual contexts. Over 15 years, Hip Deep has produced over 110 humanities-focused programs and a wide range of supplementary Web resources (interviews, videos, text/photo features, podcasts), all easily accessible within the Hip Deep section of our website. Hip Deep amplifies Afropop Worldwide’s longstanding commitment to disseminate humanities themes to the general public through world music via a growing set of media pathways.
Soundin' Like Weself: The Trinidadian Rapso Tradition
Closeup August 15, 2017
Soundin' Like Weself: The Trinidadian Rapso Tradition
Here we encounter the musical and philosophical movement called rapso–an infectiously danceable rhythmic oration style that comes with a philosophy championing a Trinidadian identity in the face of a colonial history and a globalized present.
Grimewave
Closeup March 28, 2017
Grimewave
The Music of Black Peru: Cultural Identity in the Black Pacific
Hip Deep March 9, 2017
The Music of Black Peru: Cultural Identity in the Black Pacific
This Hip Deep edition explores the sonically vibrant realm of Afro-Peruvian music, a young genre identification that has flourished since the 1950s and has now produced artists of international renown, such as singer Susana Baca, and the black folkloric company Peru Negro.
Seize the Dance: The BaAka of Central Africa
Hip Deep May 8, 2025
Seize the Dance: The BaAka of Central Africa
This program will initiate listeners into one of the most enchanting and mysterious musical practices in Africa, BaAka people music.

Afropop After 37 Years, We’re Charting a New Course