Tag Archives: popular culture

OK, Scholars, Let’s Discuss “Formation” (Part II)

In part two of this blog post, I’d like to talk about the Superbowl halftime show featuring Beyoncé and her coterie of backup dancers. (Part I is here) Much has been made of their outfits, which echo components of the … Continue reading

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OK, Scholars, Let’s Discuss “Formation” (Part I)

After a hiatus, the blog is back. And I, like everyone else, want to talk about Beyoncé’s new song and video, “Formation.” But before I do, I’d ask readers to first read/listen to the following: Yaba Blay’s article about the … Continue reading

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A Spin on Vernacular, Part Two

In my last post, I discussed the unfortunate description of “vernacular spin” by writer and comedian Neal Brennan, and how it related to the use of African American Vernacular English (AAVE). What does this have to do with Richard Sherman? … Continue reading

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A Spin on Vernacular

It’s rare when a media event overlaps with my scholarly work, but TWO events overlapping with it is practically unheard of. However, this past week, such a confluence happened. First, Neal Brennan, co-creator of Chapelle’s Show, gave an interview to … Continue reading

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