Slam poetry is one of the most underrated art forms in the world. Since the 1990's, slam poetry in America has been gaining popularity, but even the best poetic performers are still relatively unknown. Slam poets write about everything from race to gender to language itself; even if poetry really isn't your thing, I guarantee there's a slam poet out there who will speak to your soul. Here's a quick list of five awe-inspiring slam poets to get you started:
1. Shane Koyczan
Out of all the poets on this list, Shane Koyczan is probably the most well-known. You may have heard his poem To This Day while you were in school; given its topic of bullying, it's a favorite of guidance counselors everywhere. In fact, the association of Shane Koyczan with my old middle school gymnasium kept me from checking out his other poems for quite a few years -- a huge mistake on my part. Shane Koyczan's other poems combine deep topics with clever one-liners, and will have you laughing one second and crying the next. His poems are also unique because he adds music in the background, giving his words all the more weight to tug on heartstrings. Shoulders is a personal favorite. This poem stretches the edges of your worldview and brings inspiration to even the darkest of minds.
2. Savannah Brown
I first discovered Savannah Brown through her more well-know poem Hi, I'm a Slut, which, like many of her works, centers on refreshingly honest feminist themes. In addition to being unapologetically her own, Brown's poems are deep and thought-provoking, with messages that aren't always entirely clear. Her works never fail to astound me. If you're the kind of person who likes feminism, indie music, or Sylvia Plath, Savannah Brown is definitely someone you need in your life.
3. Lee Mokobe
Lee Mokobe's TED talk about being transgender is one of the most meaningful poems I've ever had the privilege to hear. In addition to being an amazing poet, Mokobe is also the co-founder of Vocal Revolutionaries, a youth literary arts organization based in South Africa, where Lee Mokobe hails from. Mokobe's poems center around modern social issues, and are told from a deeply personal perspective that will bring tears to your eyes.
4. G. Yamazawa
G. Yamazawa's work walks the line between slam poetry and rap. Having had the unforgettable experience of seeing him live, the pride and swagger in his walk and speech will draw your attention and keep it. Yamazawa's poems are recognizable by their mic-dropping endings; this poet sure knows how to pack a punch with an ending line. As a Chinese girl who grew up in Texas, this poem, 10 Things You Should Know About Being an Asian from the South, spoke to me on a personal level; but regardless of who you are, G. Yamazawa's words will make you think about things from a whole new perspective.
5. Honey Sanaa
The sheer amount of raw emotion Honey Sanaa puts into her poems is almost tangible. This women truly has a way with words; she recreates moments of her life so vividly you'll feel like you're living it alongside her. Trust me, if you want someone's words to make you feel so deeply that you want to go out and change the whole world by yourself, listen to Sanaa. She is beyond inspiring.
