Oliver Wang

Oliver Wang is a Professor of Sociology at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), specializing in popular culture, music, race, and identity studies. He holds a B.A. in Sociology and M.A./Ph.D. in Ethnic Studies from UC Berkeley. His research explores intersections of race, music, and community formation, highlighted by his award-winning book Legions of Boom (2015). He actively contributes to media via NPR, KCET, and podcasts, and currently curates a Japanese American National Museum exhibit on Nikkei car culture in LA.

Education: B.A. Sociology (UC Berkeley, 1994), M.A. and Ph.D. Ethnic Studies (UC Berkeley, 2004). Teaching focuses on sociology principles, social problems, and Los Angeles cultural studies. Research also encompasses Asian American hip-hop, food culture, and cultural memory. Recent projects include developing an Asian American music podcast and academic publications analyzing music's role in race and urban identity.

Professional roles include co-hosting podcasts Pop Rocket and Heat Rocks, along with academic advising and grants focused on cultural sociology. No formal awards listed, though his curatorial and media work reflects significant cultural influence.