Maya Cunningham is an ethnomusicologist, Africanist, and African Americanist scholar specializing in Black music, cultural identity, and the African diaspora. As a cultural activist and jazz vocalist, she explores the intersections of music, history, and identity, advocating for the preservation and celebration of African and African American musical traditions. She has conducted extensive research on African heritage in Black American music, contributing to academic discourse through publications, lectures, and community engagement. Cunningham’s work bridges scholarship and practice, emphasizing the role of music in cultural resilience and social justice. Her contributions span academia, performance, and cultural advocacy.