9th Wonder has built a legacy in hip-hop as part of Little Brother—but now he’s sharing something personal on social media that has fans applauding.
The hip-hop legend announced he’s about to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from North Carolina Central University, a HBCU in Durham. The Grammy-nominated producer, born Patrick Denard Douthit, revealed in his post that it’s always been his dream to graduate from college, though it took a little longer to achieve that goal.
He dropped out of school to pursue music and, although an accomplished record producer and executive, he went back to obtain his degree— 26 years after dropping out.
“What a ride. What a journey. My career path has been the most bizarre and blessed ride ever. I’ve made music. I’ve taught at universities. I’ve been around the NBA’s future. I never saw any of it coming. However, this was, since I was a kid, the first thing on my list. To graduate college,” 9th Wonder said in a Facebook post.
9th Wonder has also taught at North Carolina Central, Duke University, Roc Nation School of Music, Harvard University, Wake Forest University and Elizabeth City State University over the years. Now, he will walk across the HBCU’s graduation stage with a degree on May 9.
“It’s been a long time since I first stepped in Chidley Hall, 1st floor Annex, rm 106. 33 years ago to be exact. As the saying goes….its never too late. @9thmadukes , I made it. For real, this time, ” he added in his post, before shouting out his students.
“Your old professor will be joining you as a graduate this commencement season,” he wrote.
The music producer joins a list of other hip-hop notables who have also earned their degrees at HBCUs.
Megan Thee Stallion obtained her degree in Bachelor’s in Health Administration from Texas Southern University in 2021. Rapper 2 Chainz also completed his college studies, receiving his Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2000 from Virginia State University.
David Banner attended Southern University and, upon graduation, received his Bachelor’s in Business Administration.
Tracey Lee received his Bachelor’s degree from Howard University in 1994 and also earned a law degree from Southern University Law Center in 2006.
