Kamaal Malak

Artist in Residence

Kamaal Malak is a multifaceted musician, producer, academic, and researcher whose career spans diverse areas of the music industry. As a bassist and songwriter with the 2x Grammy-winning group Arrested Development, they significantly influenced conscious hip-hop in the early 1990s. His versatility as an artist is further exemplified by his collaborations with country music icon Shania Twain, bridging genres and expanding his musical reach. Beyond his performance career, Malak has made significant strides in music production, blending hip-hop, electronic, and world music influences.

At Vanderbilt University, Malak serves as a professor at CAL "Cultural Advacacy and Leadership", where he teaches the popular "Hip Hop Culture in America" class, bridging his professional experience with academic discourse. His scientific pursuits have led him to explore unconventional applications of music, notably his research on canine relaxation music titled "Music For My Dog." This groundbreaking study investigates the impact of specially frequency & tempo composed music on dogs' anxiety and stress levels, further demonstrating his commitment to pushing the boundaries of music.

https://kmenashville.com