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Jay Smooth        

Hip-Hop Culture Analyst, Radio Show Founder, Social Commentator

Jay Smooth is the creator of the hip-hop music blog and video blogging site "Ill Doctrine." In 1991, he founded what has become New York City's longest-running hip-hop radio show, WBAI's "The Underground Railroad." Smooth is widely recognized for his insightful commentary on music, race, politics, and other significant cultural and social issues, making him a respected figure in the discussion and analysis of hip-hop culture.

Throughout his career, Smooth has emphasized the importance of mutual respect and the necessity of engaging directly with complex subjects. His approach encourages audiences to rely on critical thinking and to affirm their shared humanity. He is also the host of "The Ill Doctrine," a platform where he addresses these themes with depth and nuance.

Smooth leverages his mixed-race heritage to offer a unique perspective on society and culture, frequently addressing critical topics like race and racism. His work promotes healthy discussions and fosters an environment of understanding and inclusivity across diverse communities.

Speech Topics


On Hip Hop, Race, and Politics: The Way We Talk About Things

In this talk, socio-political pundit Jay Smooth, popular vlogger beyond "The Ill Doctrine," discusses everything from present day politics and social justice to music, media, and culture. Smooth also delves into the oftentimes tricky discussion of race, specifically how we talk about race and racism as a culture, sharing thought-provoking, humorous, and entertaining suggestions for expanding our worldview on the subject.

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