
Hanif Abdurraqib Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Speaking Fee:
$20,000 to $30,000
Travels From:
CMH - Columbus, OH
Travels From:
CMH - Columbus, OH
Primary Topic Category:
Authors & Storytellers
Primary Topic Category:
Authors & Storytellers
Secondary Topic Category:
African American & Black
Secondary Topic Category:
African American & Black
Hanif Abdurraqib Speaker Profile: At A Glance
Hanif Abdurraqib is a poet, essayist, and cultural critic and the recipient of a MacArthur Foundation "Genius" grant. His most recent book, A Little Devil in America, was the winner of the Carnegie Medal and the Gordon Burn Prize. His first collection of essays, They Can’t Kill Us until They Kill Us, was named one of the books of the year by NPR, Esquire, BuzzFeed, O: The Oprah Magazine, Pitchfork, and the Chicago Tribune, among others. Go Ahead in the Rain: Notes to A Tribe Called Quest was a New York Times bestseller, a National Book Critics Circle Award and Kirkus Prize finalist, and was longlisted for the National Book Award.
Hanif Abdurraqib is a distinguished poet, essayist, and cultural critic whose insightful work bridges the intricate worlds of music, culture, and identity. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Abdurraqib's passion for storytelling began at an early age. His love for language and its power to convey complex emotions and ideas is evident in every piece he writes. Educated at the Ohio University, his academic background provided him with a strong foundation, nurturing his keen analytical skills and unique voice.
Abdurraqib's work often explores the intersection of personal and collective narratives, delving into the depths of what it means to live and create in contemporary society. His acclaimed books, such as "They Can't Kill Us Until They Kill Us," demonstrate his ability to dissect musical history with an eye that skillfully intertwines his personal reflections with broader cultural observations. This collection established him as a critical voice in understanding how art intersects with everyday life, social movements, and identity.
One of Hanif's notable strengths is his ability to infuse his work with both tenderness and gravitas, a duality that resonates deeply with readers and audiences alike. His poetry collections, including "The Crown Ain’t Worth Much," extend his exploration of themes such as grief, survival, and belonging. Abdurraqib writes with an authenticity and empathy that has earned him various accolades, including the prestigious Whiting Award in 2018. His work not only entertains but also engages readers in a dialogue about pressing societal issues.
As a keynote speaker, Hanif Abdurraqib brings an unparalleled depth of understanding to any event. Whether discussing the nuances of African American experiences through popular culture or highlighting the transformative power of music, his talks are engaging and informative. His ability to relate personal stories to wider cultural phenomena makes him an invaluable resource for audiences seeking insight into the heart of contemporary cultural discourse.
Abdurraqib's body of work, both written and spoken, continues to influence and inspire. He masterfully uses his platform to elevate conversations around creativity, race, and the human condition. Each piece he writes or speaks is a testament to his dedication to fostering empathy and understanding through art. In a world increasingly in need of thoughtful discourse, Hanif Abdurraqib stands out as a voice of clarity and introspection.