Wood Bead Necklace Formerly Owned by Professor X

This wood-beaded necklace was formerly owned by Professor X (Lumumba Carson) of the Brooklyn-based X-Clan. Like this necklace, every garment and accessory worn by X-Clan members is considered to possess its own unique energy or spirit. As the leader of one of Rap’s most Afrocentric groups, Professor X commonly adorned himself in garments similar to those worn by many African tribal chieftains. Professor X and his group mates wore African medallions and were often dressed in clothing with the Black nationalist colors of red, black and green. 

The Afrocentric or African-centered style and political thinking that emerged in the late ’80s and early ’90s of Hip-Hop culture was all about Black people getting in touch with their African-roots. This style and political lyricism meant embracing the African culture and lifestyle. Artist who participated in Afrocentric fashions wore Black nationalist colors that dominated the clothing and fashion, accompanied with African print hats, clothing, chains, and medallions. 

Leader of the ’90s Hip-Hop group X-Clan, Professor X, Baba Professor X the Overseer, or PXO, (Lumumba Carson, 1956-2006) was born the son of a Brooklyn-based activist, Black nationalist, and community leader. Professor X began his Hip-Hop career as a promoter for the Hip-Hop group Whodini. Discovered by Paradise Gray, Professor X was considered lyrical a mastermind in Hip-Hop with his politically conscious and Afrocentric lyricism. Like the bald Professor X of the X-Men, he was intelligent and a mentor. Professor X often noted that the X-Clan had a “purpose that continues beyond our records.” That purpose was the uplift of African-Americans through self-awareness and historical knowledge. He is also known for the sound of his signature catch phrase, “Vanglorious! This is protected by the Red, the Black, and the Green with a key, sissy!,” that he delivered at the beginning of X-Clan’s 1990 song “Funkin’ Lesson.”