Kimbrew McCleod – a middle-aged professor with glasses and a receding hairline – concluded a low-key introduction of Jeff Chang, then demanded to know if Iowa City was “in the house.” “I’ve always wanted to say that,” he confessed.

Chang is a journalist and historian who spoke in Shambaugh Auditorium Monday about the cultural and political significance of the musical movement called hip-hop. And during his lecture, he recounted some of the slang and single verses of hip-hop anthems so many have longed to say but couldn’t for lack of Chang-like street cred. (more…)