E-mail a friendNovember 4, 2008
Princeton professor Dr. Cornel West explains why he's okay with the Democratic Party being in the White House and controlling Congress. Singer-songwriter Raphael Saadiq explains how being a musician and having "the chops" must always come first; he also performs a track from his new CD.
Dr. Cornel West
Dr. Cornel West
Princeton professor explains his critique of Sen. Obama and discusses why it is crucial that the Illinois senator be elected. (1:54)
Full interview. (11:53)
A renowned scholar, Princeton professor Dr. Cornel West has written/edited more than 20 books, including Race Matters and, his memoir, Brother West. Outside of academia, he's been described as an "intellectual provocateur," with lectures, TV and film appearances and his spoken-word CDs. He provided philosophical commentary on all three Matrix films, and his disc, "Never Forget: A Journey of Revelations," combined hip-hop and intellectual dialogue. West has also taught at Harvard, Yale and Union Theological Seminary.
Raphael Saadiq
Raphael Saadiq
Singer-songwriter shares how he managed to get one of his idols, Stevie Wonder, to play the harmonica on his new album. (1:22)
Full interview. (7:41)
A pioneer of neo-soul, Raphael Saadiq produces, sings and plays several instruments. At age 6, he played bass in his hometown of Oakland, CA. At 18, he played with Prince. Saadiq was a founding member of the supergroups Tony! Toni! Toné! and Lucy Pearl. He's also produced tracks for numerous artists. Saadiq made history with his debut solo effort, "Instant Vintage," as the first artist nominated for a Grammy without having a major record deal. His latest CD, "The Way I See It," was named iTunes #1 Best Album of 2008.