Howard University’s third annual Hip Hop Studies Conference is set to take place Nov. 14-16, and this year’s theme — “Respect the Technique: Hip-Hop & Technology” — dives into how hip-hop continues to push boundaries through innovation, sound, and digital creativity. 

The weekend will bring together artists, scholars, and innovators for panels, workshops, film screenings, and live demonstrations that explore how technology shapes the culture — from beat-making and engineering to AI, streaming, and digital storytelling. 

Special guests include rapper and producer Reuben Vincent, Grammy Award–winning producer 9th Wonder, Grammy Award-winning artist The D.O.C., legendary engineer Young Guru, and South African emcee ZuluMecca, all coming to share insight, stories, and techniques that connect hip-hop’s past, present, and future. 

The conference kicks off Friday night with an opening reception at Eaton DC, followed by two full days of panels, workshops, and film screenings on campus. Expect sessions like “The Art of the Mix” with Creating Classics, the “Hip-Hop Futures” film showcase, and global conversations on tech, creativity, and resistance. 

Admission is free for all students and $50 for the public. Register now at HUHipHop.Eventbrite.com. 

Official conference hotels include Eaton DC and Hyatt House Washington DC/Downtown/Convention Center. 

Stay tuned for the full lineup and schedule and follow @howardhiphop for announcements, speaker drops, and behind-the-scenes updates. 

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