A Howard University senior, Trinity Webster-Bass, has been conducting groundbreaking research at the nexus of culture, identity, and media. Her work delves into how music crafted by Black women influences the sense of empowerment and political thought among young Black women. As a dual major in broadcast journalism and Afro-American studies, she is part of the esteemed 2021 Annenberg Honors Program cohort. Her thesis combines qualitative and quantitative methodologies to analyze messages within rap and R&B music produced by Black female artists, focusing on their impact on Howard University students.

This investigation spans multiple generations of artists, examining themes such as sex, money, relationships, and friendships through lyrics and music videos. Webster-Bass identified significant patterns indicating that exposure to themes like sexual empowerment positively correlates with how young Black women perceive their autonomy and agency. Additionally, her study involved surveys to gauge the influence of these musical themes on students' self-perception and political beliefs. Contrary to expectations, social media played a less transformative role than anticipated, primarily reinforcing pre-existing political views.

Webster-Bass's findings underscore the profound impact of repeated consumption of certain media forms on individual perspectives. She emphasizes how music subtly yet powerfully shapes self-perception. The research highlights music's role as both a tool for self-definition and cultural expression, as well as a platform for womanist ideologies and Black empowerment. Her aspiration is to publish this work in an academic journal, continuing her contributions to journalism and audio storytelling through her roles at The Hilltop and Howard’s H2 News Service.

As Trinity Webster-Bass graduates, her legacy exemplifies Howard University's commitment to amplifying Black voices, challenging cultural narratives, and advancing scholarship grounded in lived experiences. Her work demonstrates the transformative power of art to not only entertain but also to empower individuals.