Stephen S. Hudson

Stephen S. Hudson is an Assistant Professor of Music Theory at Occidental College. He holds a B.A. from the University of California, Davis, and a Ph.D. from Northwestern University. Appointed in 2022, he specializes in metal music studies and R&B/Soul harmony.

• Education: B.A., University of California, Davis; Ph.D., Northwestern University

Hudson’s research focuses on embodied experiences of rhythm, timbre, and song form in metal music, as well as harmonic complexity in R&B and Soul. His work has been featured in Music Theory Spectrum, Metal Music Studies, and Current Musicology.

Recent publications include articles on Drake’s harmonic loops and Meshuggah’s groove structures. He is authoring two books: Heaviness in Metal Music (Oxford University Press) and a study of Meshuggah’s riffs (Lever Press).

As Vice President of the Pacific Southwest chapter of the American Musicological Society, he advocates for inclusive music theory pedagogy that extends beyond classical traditions. His teaching emphasizes tools for songwriters and producers.

Hudson maintains an active interest in classical and baroque cello performance, reflecting his engagement with both historical and contemporary music practices.