Proud Nuwaubian Fez

This red fabric fez was made by Hilmart in Morocco. It has a black tassel and printed graphic on the front with the texts “Proud Nuwaubian” and “United Nuwaubian Nation of Moors.” Nuwaubian teachings have inspired and influenced hip hop artists including Afrika Bambaataa, Doug E. Fresh, Erykah Badu, and Outkast. Bambaataa donated this fez to the Smithsonian in 2006. Afrika Bambaata (born Kevin Donovan), an American DJ from the Bronx, was influential in the early development of hip hop and is regarded as the “Godfather” of hip hop culture. He has been instrumental in spreading hip hop music and culture around the world, as well as creating opportunities and helping to improve the lives of others in the hip hop community through his organization "Universal Zulu Nation." In 1990, Bambaataa made Life magazine's "Most Important Americans of the 20th Century" issue. Currently not on view