Founder and CEO – Brandon “Griot B” Brown

Brandon “Griot B” Brown has been an educator of minds for over a decade. Prior to founding SchoolYard Rap, he was a founding school leader in Richmond, California. He built a strong school culture, boasted the lowest suspension rate in his district, and helped the school receive Top Bay Area Public School. He began his career as a public school teacher in South Los Angeles and Inglewood, California he used hip-hop in his classroom to increase students’ achievement. He is a man who understands the value of education and the necessity of making school a fun place to learn. His success as a teacher and leader led him to take up the mantle of Griot B and create SchoolYard Rap.

In West African tradition, a Griot was charged with knowing the history of the village or kingdom and advising the ruler of his clan; he told this history through stories and music. Griot B is a griot for this generation of learners. He tells OUR stories through rap. He educates all about the histories of people of color. He teaches diverse crowds about race and equity.

Brandon “Griot B” Brown holds a Bachelor’s degree in African American Studies from the University of California, Davis and Master’s degree in Education from Pepperdine University. Artist, Educator, Entertainer, Brandon “Griot B” Brown wears these hats simultaneously to educate and uplift across the country.