Sport in Society's Rhythm & Flow Initiative bridges music, sport, and society

The Rhythm & Flow Initiative is dedicated to the study of how music and sport intersect in society. It aims to discover how music and sport have been used and might be used to combat discrimination and promote human rights for all.

“Music and sport have shared a history of marketplace competition, commodification, and of course, globalization,” said principal researcher and Northeastern University Professor Emmett Price. “However, there is one additional consideration worthy of contemplation: How have they both functioned in society to create, inspire, and nurture better citizens? We aim to approach questions such as this with this study.”

Music and sport are rapidly changing industries with growing significance on the global community. The current controversial climate surrounding artists and athletes makes it particularly interesting for this research to offer insight on the role, function, and effect of the creative talents of music and sport. An essential focus of the project will be to examine how these two cultures interact and how they impact communities around the world.

University of Central Florida's Keith Harrison, will team up with Price in this initiative. Both researchers are Research Fellows at the Center for the Study of Sport in Society.

“I believe, Rhythm and Flow is the only project in the US or abroad currently doing action-research in this area,” said Price. “We are extremely excited and passionate about delivering products that will have a positive influence on both the music and sports communities.”

The Rhythm & Flow initiative is working to launch an interactive website. The site will offer members of the music and sport communities, as well as scholars and activists a place in cyberspace to meet, discuss, and plan for action on issues relevant to the intersection of music and sport. Providing education about these issues to athletes, musicians, fans, and youth is central to the role and purpose of the Rhythm & Flow initiative. Researchers involved with the initiative will explore studies that focus on social justice and promote equity in the sports and music communities. The goal will be to provide education and support to musicians, athletes, fans, and youth generally throughout the world.

The Center for the Study of Sport in Society utilizes the power and appeal of sport; works locally, nationally and globally to identify and address social problems in sport and in society. The Center conducts research, develops programs that offer solutions, and educates and advocates on the emerging issues.