Christopher Alan Waterman

About the Author

Christopher Alan Waterman is a distinguished ethnomusicologist and cultural anthropologist whose work illuminates the vibrant intersections of music, society, and identity in African and diasporic contexts. With a PhD from the University of Illinois, he has held faculty positions at institutions including the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University, where he taught courses on global music traditions and ethnographic methods. Waterman's research draws on extensive fieldwork in Nigeria and beyond, exploring how popular music forms like juju reflect social dynamics, urbanization, and cultural resistance. His scholarship bridges academic rigor with accessible storytelling, making complex histories engaging for both specialists and general readers. Beyond academia, he has contributed to documentaries and public lectures, fostering greater appreciation for African musical heritage.