Chicago’s vibrant hip hop scene is set to gain a new academic spotlight as acclaimed rapper Femi Adigun, known professionally as Femdot, takes on the role of instructor at his alma mater, DePaul University. This fall, Adigun will lead “Chicago Culture Through Hip Hop,” a course designed to immerse students in the rich history, artistic merit, and intellectual depth of the genre, using Chicago’s own musical legacy as the primary text.
From Stages to Seminars: A DePaul Alumnus’s Journey
Femi Adigun’s path to the lecture hall is one marked by ambition, manifestation, and a deep-rooted connection to his city. Born in Evanston and raised across various Chicago neighborhoods, Adigun navigated a demanding dual life as a student and burgeoning artist. After an initial period at Penn State University, he transferred to DePaul, drawn by the opportunities and community in his hometown. While pursuing a degree in Biological Sciences with a minor in Peace, Justice & Conflict Studies, Adigun was a familiar face on campus, balancing library sessions with late-night studio work and open mic performances, steadily building his reputation as Femdot.
His academic background informs his unique perspective, which he now plans to share with a new generation of students. Adigun has spoken about his long-held desire to teach, even humorously noting his mother’s nickname for him: “Professor.” This aspiration, nurtured through informal teaching moments with classmates during his undergraduate years, has now materialized into a formal academic role. His return to DePaul as an educator signifies a full-circle moment, highlighting his dedication to giving back to both his community and the art form that has shaped his career.
“Chicago Culture Through Hip Hop”: A Unique Academic Exploration
The “Chicago Culture Through Hip Hop” course is not a typical academic offering. Designed as part of DePaul’s first-year “Explore” program, it serves as a mandatory introduction for freshmen and transfer students to the city itself. Adigun views hip hop as the perfect vehicle for this exploration, asserting that the genre deserves respect as both a sophisticated art form and a valid academic field. The curriculum is crafted to move beyond traditional classroom lectures, emphasizing experiential learning.
Students will engage with Chicago’s hip hop narrative through listening sessions, critical readings, and contextual discussions that link the music to the city’s social, political, and cultural landscape. Adigun plans to take his students beyond campus, guiding them through neighborhoods that birthed influential artists, visiting recording studios, and exploring spaces that have profoundly shaped Chicago’s unique sound. This hands-on approach aims to provide a holistic understanding of hip hop’s intrinsic connection to urban identity and its evolution as a cultural force.
Hip Hop as Intellectual Pursuit
Adigun’s core philosophy is that rap writing demands a level of skill and artistry comparable to poetry or prose. He aims to dismantle any lingering perceptions of hip hop as less sophisticated or intellectually rigorous than other established arts. “I really, really love hip hop as a cultural piece, as a form of language and writing, and as a lens into the world,” Adigun stated. “If I can use my knowledge to show that hip hop belongs in academic spaces — to humanize these experiences and bring an academic lens to the culture — that’s important to me.”
This perspective aligns with a growing movement to recognize hip hop’s significant cultural and academic contributions. Institutions across the country are increasingly offering courses and programs dedicated to hip hop studies, acknowledging its impact on music, poetry, social commentary, and activism. By bringing this focus to DePaul, Adigun is not only sharing his expertise but also contributing to the broader academic validation of hip hop music and culture.
A Commitment to Community and Education
Beyond his academic endeavors, Adigun has consistently demonstrated a commitment to community empowerment. During his time as a student, he founded the Delacreme Scholarship Program, named after his album “Delacreme 2.” This initiative, focused on supporting Black and Brown students at DePaul facing financial challenges, underscores his dedication to ensuring educational access and opportunity for underserved communities. His efforts, amplified through social media and partnerships with student organizations, exemplify his belief that success should be shared and that those who have benefited from opportunities should extend them to others.
Chicago’s Enduring Hip Hop Stories
Chicago boasts a rich and diverse hip hop history, often overshadowed by the more dominant narratives from the East and West Coasts. From the foundational beats that influenced the genre to the emergence of groundbreaking artists who have put the city on the map, Chicago’s contribution is undeniable. Efforts by institutions like the University of Illinois Chicago to archive and promote this history reflect a growing recognition of the city’s pivotal role. Femdot’s course at DePaul further solidifies this legacy, offering a platform to explore these vital stories and understand hip hop as an integral part of Chicago’s identity.
As the semester begins, students in “Chicago Culture Through Hip Hop” will embark on a journey through the city’s sonic landscape, guided by an artist who embodies its spirit. Alongside his new teaching role, Adigun continues to advance his music career, with his project “KING DILLA 2” slated for release on September 30, signaling a busy yet creatively fulfilling period for the multifaceted artist.
Femdot’s transition to educator represents a significant moment, not just for him, but for the academic recognition of hip hop. His class at DePaul promises to be an enlightening experience, offering students a unique opportunity to learn about music, culture, and the power of storytelling through the lens of one of Chicago’s most respected artists.
