Dr. King Britt

Biography

At UC San Diego, King Britt utilizes a distinctive, non-linear approach to electronic music pedagogy. His work integrates modern practices with a deep, industry-informed perspective that bridges academic rigor with real-world expertise. Born in Philadelphia, King is a recipient of the prestigious Pew Fellowship and has spent 30 years as a producer, composer, and performer, advancing electronic music on a global scale. His illustrious career includes collaborations with a wide array of iconic artists and creators such as De La Soul, Madlib, and John Legend, as well as notable directors like Michael Mann. King has an impressive remix portfolio that showcases his versatility and style, working with artists such as James Brown, Solange, Calvin Harris, and Dua Lipa. He has teamed up with MacArthur Fellow Tyshawn Sorey on acclaimed album projects and has graced stages globally, performing at renowned venues and festivals including AfroPunk in NYC, Berghain in Berlin, MoogFest in Durham, and Le Guess Who in Utrecht. In addition to performance, King has made significant curatorial contributions by showcasing collaborations at esteemed institutions like MoMA PS1, MoCA LA, and Carnegie Hall. One of his major academic contributions is the course 'Blacktronika: Afrofuturism in Electronic Music', which honors innovators of color who have shaped the electronic music landscape. This innovative course has attracted high-profile guests such as Questlove, Herbie Hancock, and Tokimonsta, further solidifying his position as a leading authority in Afrofuturism music. With a multifaceted career, King Britt continues to be an influential force in academia and the music industry, redefining the intersection of education, performance, and cultural innovation.

Research Interests