Rap on Trial

Dwayne Matthews, PhD

Research and consultation on rap lyrics as criminal evidence.

Understanding lyrics in context

Rap lyrics are creative expression. Interpreting them requires attention to genre, performance, storytelling, and the distinction between an artist and a narrator.

My research

I earned my PhD in Sociology and Criminology at Howard University. My dissertation, Race, Rap, and Legal Scrutiny: How Rap Lyrics Become Criminal Evidence Through Racialized Legal Meaning-Making, examines how lyrics acquire evidentiary meaning in U.S. criminal legal proceedings.

Areas of consultation

• Case-specific analysis of rap lyrics and their cultural context

• Artist, narrator, and autobiographical interpretation

• Research briefings, speaking, and educational workshops

Relevant training

Rap Expert Training Program hosted by Howard University’s Rap on Trial Clinic and the University of Richmond.

Consultation inquiries

For consultation, speaking, or research inquiries, email dwaynelr87@gmail.com. Please include your name, organization, and a brief description of your inquiry.