Episodes

  • In this episode, Mad Skillz shares his journey from childhood to hip hop stardom, emphasizing the importance of preparation, authenticity, and resilience in the music industry. He discusses his early influences, the grind of building a career, and insights into the culture of hip hop. Mad Skillz shares his journey from hip hop artist to spoken word poet, his experiences with Grammy nominations, and the importance of authenticity and community in art. We explore the evolution of spoken word, the significance of representation, and the power of perseverance in creative pursuits.

    keywords

    Hip Hop, Rap, Music Industry, Artist Journey, Creativity, Preparation, Resilience, North Carolina, Virginia, Hip Hop Culture Mad Skillz, spoken word, Grammy, hip hop, poetry, creativity, community, representation, perseverance, artistry

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Mad Skillz

    05:01 The Early Days of Hip-Hop

    08:03 First Experiences with Performance

    11:07 The Journey of Self-Expression

    14:07 Growing Up in Fayetteville and Richmond

    17:06 The Turning Point in His Career

    20:02 Taking Hip-Hop Seriously

    23:16 The Art of Freestyling

    25:52 The Journey to Success

    29:00 The Reality of Fame and Struggles

    32:43 Performing for the First Time

    35:06 The Pressure of Freestyling

    43:43 Transitioning to Spoken Word Poetry

    49:19 Navigating the Grammy Journey

    52:54 The Impact of Vulnerability in Poetry

    56:55 Raising the Bar for Spoken Word

    58:21 The Importance of Sustaining the Spoken Word Category

    01:02:13 Transformations and Intentions in Poetry

    01:14:27 From Loss to Inspiration: The Birth of 'Words for Days'

    01:17:07 The Art of the Pivot in Music

    01:18:04 Dreams and Aspirations in the Music Industry

    01:19:06 Cultural Kinship and Representation

    01:20:01 The Collective Journey to Recognition

    01:21:09 The Significance of Awards and Acknowledgment

    01:23:00 The Importance of Community and Support

    01:24:07 Mentorship and Guiding the Next Generation

    01:26:15 Manifesting Dreams and Future Goals

    01:29:10 Freestyling and Creative Expression

    Freestyle Beat: Snake Beats

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us: [email protected]

    Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.

    Thank you for listening

  • summary

    In this engaging interview, Black Chakra shares his journey from hip-hop to spoken word, the importance of critique and strategy in slam poetry, and the sacrifices behind success. Discover insights on the evolution of poetry, the role of competition, and how to grow as an artist. In this engaging interview, Black Chakra shares insights on poetry, slam culture, style, and the importance of originality. He discusses his journey, the significance of maintaining unique voice, and offers practical advice for aspiring poets and performers.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties

    03:55 The Birth and Death of Drunk J

    03:56 Introducing Black Chakra

    05:36 The Journey of Black Chakra into Writing

    09:55 The Evolution of Poetry and Slam Competitions

    13:25 First Love Poem and Early Competitions

    22:00 The Impact of Slam Poetry

    24:09 Confessions of a Young Poet

    24:39 The Journey of a Slam Poet

    28:01 Facing Criticism and Growth

    32:28 The Importance of Mentorship

    35:25 Understanding the Game of Slam

    38:29 The Price of Success

    43:41 Transforming Trauma into Art

    48:12 Accessibility in Poetry and Mentorship

    51:38 The Importance of Roles in Poetry Groups

    52:58 Investing in Coaching for Poets

    55:23 The Evolution of Spoken Word and Rap

    55:31 The Unique Voices in Poetry

    59:06 Imitation vs. Originality in Poetry

    01:01:16 The Power of Performance in Slam Poetry

    01:07:17 The Game of Slam Poetry

    01:09:11 Community and Support in Poetry Circles

    01:12:11 The Legacy of Slam Teams and Championships

    01:24:09 Travel Tales and Team Dynamics

    01:26:33 Grim Jackson: The Legend and His Antics

    01:28:31 The Cringe and Comedy of Grim's Performances

    01:31:34 Pop Culture and Movie Rankings

    01:36:23 Freestyling and Creative Expression

    01:45:16 Shoutouts and Closing Thoughts

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us: [email protected]

    Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.

    Thank you for listening

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  • summary

    In this engaging interview, Steph Love shares her journey from writing elementary school poetry to winning a Grammy for her spoken word album with Skillz. She discusses her experiences in the poetry scene, hosting open mics, and her memorable moments at the Grammys, offering valuable insights for aspiring artists. In this engaging interview, Steph Love shares her journey from slam poetry to Grammy recognition, discusses Virginia's unique artistic scene, and plays fun games that reveal insights into the poetry community and industry. Discover how Virginia artists are making waves and the importance of history and community in artistic success.

    keywords

    Poetry, Spoken Word, Grammy, Poetry Scene, Open Mic, Slam, Music Collaboration, Artist Journey, Poetry Tips, Music Awards Poetry, Grammy, Virginia artists, Slam poetry, Music industry, Poetry community, Awards, Virginia scene, Artistic success, Interviews

    Chapters

    00:00 The Hot Dog Water Story

    04:18 Introducing Steph Love

    07:43 Steph Love's Poetic Journey

    12:51 The Evolution of Hosting

    23:11 Advice for Aspiring Hosts

    24:53 Memorable Slam Experiences

    32:12 Slam Poetry Experiences and Judging Dynamics

    35:38 Transitioning to Grammy Conversations

    35:54 Mad Skills and the Poetry Community

    36:29 Collaboration and Artistic Integrity

    38:10 The Journey to the Grammys

    40:51 Acceptance Speech and Its Impact

    43:21 The Excitement of the Grammy Experience

    49:13 Reflections on Virginia's Artistic Identity

    59:05 The Grammy Conversation: Who Deserves Recognition?

    59:59 Becoming a Grammy Voter: The Path to Influence

    01:00:30 Virginia's Grammy History: A Competitive Landscape

    01:01:55 Blind Ranking: Virginia Slam Teams Showdown

    01:08:06 The Best Virginia Poet: A Messy Debate

    01:10:51 North Carolina vs. Virginia: The Poet Showdown

    01:15:55 Retirement from Slam: A New Chapter for Steph Love

    01:17:15 Freestyle Challenge: The Final Showdown

    resources

    Skillz Grammy-winning album - https://www.amazon.com/Skillz-Album

    Poetry Slam Resources - https://poetryslam.com

    Steph Love's Bandcamp - https://parksandrecs.bandcamp.com

    Poet Up Podcast - https://podcastlink.com

    Steph Love on Instagram - https://instagram.com/slfiv

    Steph Love on TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@sl5

    Steph Love's Website - https://sl5designs.com

    Poet Up Podcast - https://podcastlink.com

  • Keywords

    poetry, storytelling, creativity, family dynamics, community, writing, identity, humor, faith, artistic expression, poetry, poets of color, HBCU, PWI, Black History Month, community, cultural shock, living poets, manuscript coaching, poetry opportunities

    Summary

    In this engaging conversation, Poet Up and Candace G. Wiley explore the intersections of humor, creativity, and personal experiences in writing. We discuss the importance of community in the poetry world, the impact of family dynamics on artistic expression, and the role of religion in shaping their narratives. Candace shares her journey from childhood poetry to her current work, emphasizing the significance of supportive relationships and the creation of spaces like The Watering Hole for diverse voices in the literary community. In this engaging conversation, Candace and the guys explore the definition of a poet, the importance of recognizing living poets of color, and the cultural shock experienced when transitioning from HBCUs to PWIs. We reflect on the historical context of universities, especially regarding their ties to slavery, and discuss the significance of Black History Month. The conversation also highlights opportunities for poets through the Watering Hole and includes a fun game segment, culminating in a freestyle session that showcases their creativity and camaraderie.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties

    00:45 The Raccoon Incident: A Comedic Tale

    03:33 Welcoming Candace Wiley: A Creative Force

    05:39 Drinks and Origins: Candace's First Poem

    07:59 Exploring Themes of Faith and Identity

    11:03 Childhood Memories: Marriage at a Young Age

    12:24 Growing Up in a Restrictive Environment

    14:25 Rewriting Biblical Stories: A Creative Journey

    17:10 Navigating Parental Expectations and Artistic Freedom

    20:47 The Impact of Sharing Poetry with Family

    23:32 Reflections on Parenting and Creativity

    27:16 The Watering Hole: A Creative Community

    28:48 The Value of Community Education

    32:55 Creating The Watering Hole

    36:38 The Intersection of Spoken and Written Poetry

    36:59 Navigating the Poetry Landscape

    45:25 The Legacy of Black Poets

    47:10 Transitioning from HBCU to PWI

    57:56 The Power of Dreams and Unity

    01:01:26 Contrasting Leaders: Malcolm X vs. Martin Luther King Jr.

    01:04:20 The Role of White Allies in the Movement

    01:06:15 Opportunities in Poetry: The Watering Hole

    01:13:28 Freestyle Challenge and Closing Thoughts

    Freestyle Beat: MallChi

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us: [email protected]

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    Thank you for listening

  • Summary

    In this engaging conversation, we chat with Steven Willis and explore the evolution of poetry, the impact of the New York scene, and the challenges faced by contemporary poets. We discuss the significance of trauma poetry, the importance of diversifying styles, and the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success. Steven shares his personal journey, the lessons learned from competition, and the need for poets to understand their worth in the industry. In this engaging conversation, we delve into the competitive nature of slam poetry, discussing the importance of facing the best poets and the evolving dynamics of judging in slam competitions. We explore the challenges of maintaining anonymity among judges and the impact of audience expectations on performance. The discussion also touches on the Mount Rushmore of poets, recognizing both celebrated and underappreciated voices in the poetry community.

    Chapters

    01:15 Personal Stories and Compliments

    07:18 Stephen's Journey into Poetry

    10:18 The Evolution of Stephen's Stage Name

    13:18 New York: The City of Poetry Challenges

    16:13 The Impact of Competition on Growth

    19:16 The Changing Landscape of Poetry Post-Pandemic

    21:48 Regional Influences in Contemporary Poetry

    24:47 Top White Poets and Their Influence

    26:19 Exploring Poetic Themes and Styles

    28:34 The Importance of Study and Archiving in Poetry

    30:43 The Balance of Slam Poetry and Personal Growth

    33:30 The Debate on Trauma Poetry

    38:35 Navigating the Corporate Side of Poetry

    45:38 The Value of Versatility in Poetry

    49:48 Self-Reflection and Authenticity in Poetic Expression

    58:11 Facing the Best: The Competitive Spirit in Slam Poetry

    01:01:04 The Evolution of Slam: Anonymity and Judging Dynamics

    01:05:52 The Pressure of Performance: Expectations and New Work

    01:11:05 Mount Rushmore of Poets: Personal Favorites and Under-Recognized Voices

    01:17:25 Trivia Time: Testing Knowledge in the Poetry Community

    01:25:46 The Battle of the Rappers: Kendrick vs. Drake

    01:36:22 The Evolution of Hip-Hop: Standards and Hypocrisy

    01:41:40 Cultural Context in Rap Battles

    01:45:07 Final Thoughts and Freestyle Session

    Steven Willis Info:

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us: [email protected]

    Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.

    Thank you for listening

  • Summary

    In this episode of the Poet Up Podcast, we engage in a lively discussion about racial unity, personal experiences at concerts, and the journey into poetry. We explore how education and performance shape a poet's career, the importance of business acumen in the arts, and the influence of military life on creativity. The conversation also touches on community engagement and the diverse avenues available in the poetry scene. This conversation explores the journey of Josephus and the evolution of the Poetry Cafe, highlighting the importance of community, networking, and overcoming adversity in the arts. From its inception in 2009 to its expansion into a radio show and national platform, the discussion emphasizes the significance of local investment and the potential for international opportunities. Josephus shares personal anecdotes about challenges faced and the lessons learned, ultimately inspiring listeners to embrace growth and creativity in their own artistic endeavors. In this engaging conversation, we explore the importance of community in poetry, the value of language learning, and the significance of supporting artists through album purchases. We discuss the Grammy spoken word category, the journey of creating an album, and of course, we freestyle.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Life Updates

    04:25 Exploring the Journey into Poetry

    09:36 Transitioning from Hobby to Profession

    13:50 Connecting with the Audience through Poetry

    17:58 Navigating Friendships and Creativity

    22:14 Inspiration from Def Poetry

    26:48 Community Engagement Through Poetry

    30:30 International Poetry and Opportunities

    34:24 Leveraging Opportunities for Growth

    42:42 The Journey of Poetry Cafe

    43:12 From Local to National: Expanding Reach

    45:00 Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities

    45:49 Growth Through Adversity

    46:59 The Importance of Community and Sharing Knowledge

    48:03 The Value of Language Learning

    49:31 Cultural Perspectives on Language Acquisition

    50:21 Fun and Games: That's Cap Segment

    51:58 Grammy Considerations and Spoken Word Poetry

    54:23 Creating a Cohesive Album Experience

    56:40 The Creative Process Behind the Album

    57:37 Balancing Art and Family Life

    58:34 The Journey of an Artist

    59:29 Inspiration from Fellow Artists

    59:58 The Importance of Supporting Artists

    01:01:19 Audience Engagement and Feedback

    01:02:21 Promoting the Album and Its Singles

    01:03:18 Connecting with the Community

    01:04:30 Freestyling and Fun Moments

    01:07:21 Shoutouts and Global Reach

    Check out Josephus at www.josephusiii.com and buy his latest album Changing The World One Poem At A Time. Follow Josepus on IG @josephusiii

    Freestyle Beat courtesy of Mall Chi

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us: [email protected]

    Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.

    Thank you for listening

  • Summary

    In this episode, we engage in a lively conversation with Frank Expression, exploring his journey from a trumpet player to a poet. We discuss the significance of time, resilience, and determination in the creative process, as well as the challenges he faced, including overcoming Bell's Palsy. The conversation also delves into the business side of poetry, the importance of consistency, and the role of supportive relationships in artistic growth. Frank shares insights on building a poetry platform and the necessity of understanding the mechanics of running creative events. In this engaging conversation, we explore the journey of success in the creative arts, emphasizing the importance of determination, collaboration, and community building. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of organizing events, the significance of profitability, and the need for transparency in the arts. The dialogue also touches on the evolution of information sources in the digital age and offers valuable advice for new poets navigating a new city. And of course, we freestyle.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Swearing-In Ceremony Insights

    05:39 Frank's Journey into Poetry

    11:29 Reflections on Family and Loss

    16:14 Determination and Rehabilitation

    22:45 First Dates and Personal Growth

    26:03 Vision and Purpose in Life

    27:08 Engineering and Creativity

    28:53 Relocating for Creative Growth

    30:45 Building a Poetry Platform

    31:43 Navigating Venue Conversations

    32:43 The Importance of Consistency

    34:28 Collaborating for Success

    35:51 Profitability and Growth

    38:10 Community Over Competition

    39:34 Creating Exceptional Experiences

    41:00 Reflecting on Success

    41:30 Reflecting on Show Experiences

    42:57 The Importance of Real Numbers in Events

    44:27 Enhancing the Show Experience

    45:36 Building Community Through Poetry

    46:48 Establishing Yourself as a Poet in a New City

    48:48 Understanding the Business Side of Poetry

    51:04 The Evolution of Information Sharing

    52:58 Musical Influences and Personal Growth

    55:25 Sports Moments and Personal Reflections

    56:44 Upcoming Poetry Events and Platforms

    57:43 Freestyle Challenge and Creative Flow

    01:01:12 Global Listener Shoutouts and Community Engagement

    For all of Frank's info go to his IG @frank_expression

    Freestyle Beat: Arpeggios by Mall Chi

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us: [email protected]

    Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.

    Thank you for listening

  • Summary

    In this episode of the Poet Up podcast, we engage in a lively conversation with Jah Smalls about his journey from New York City to Charlotte, the creation of the Black Charlotte Project, and the importance of community and storytelling in poetry. We discuss the cultural misconceptions about the South, the aspirations for Grammy recognition, and the emotional impact of the project on both participants and listeners. And as always, we freestyle.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts

    06:49 Journey from NYC to Charlotte

    12:06 The Impact of Community and Culture

    17:55 The Future of Black Charlotte and Its Legacy

    39:44 Unity Through Poetry

    45:01 Stories of Competition and Identity

    49:35 New York vs. The South: A Cultural Exchange

    51:30 Humor and Anecdotes: Life Experiences

    57:08 The Black Charlotte Project: A Celebration of Community

    01:10:22 PoetUp Intro Slide.mp4

    Jah Info: IG @The_JahSmalls @grannaesboyz @respectdamic

    Freestyle Beat: MallChi

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    PoetUp YouTube: @⁠PoetUpPodcast⁠

    Email us: ⁠[email protected]

    Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.

    Thank you for listening

  • Summary

    In this episode of the Poet Up Podcast, we engage in a deep and inspiring conversation with Ebony Payne, a multifaceted artist and survivor. We discuss Ebony's recent health scare after being bitten by a brown recluse spider, her journey of survival, and the importance of advocacy in healthcare, especially for marginalized communities. The conversation shifts to Ebony's work in memorializing African American history and culture, her thoughts on social justice, and the role of artists in these movements. We also touch on personal growth, the significance of leaving comfort zones, and the intersection of fashion and art. Finally, we explore Ebony's aspirations in music, including her Tiny Desk audition, and conclude with a freestyle session that encapsulates the spirit of creativity and resilience.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

    03:59 Survival and Resilience: Ebony's Journey

    09:58 The Importance of Advocacy in Healthcare

    16:11 Memorializing History: A Divine Purpose

    20:02 Restorative Justice and Community Engagement

    25:01 The Power of Uprooting and Transformation

    30:05 Fashion as Art: Self-Expression and Identity

    39:58 The Spiritual Connection in Fashion

    41:12 Investing in Dreams and Talents

    44:56 The Journey of Mackie and Black Spades

    48:44 The Power of Small Gestures

    49:42 Restorative Justice and Self-Identity

    56:14 Tiny Desk Audition Experience

    01:09:18 Freestyle and Creative Expression

    01:16:19 Capsule Collection Launch with Black Spades

    Ebony Info:

    IG: @ebonypayneenglish

    Youtube

    Freestyle Beat: MallChi

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    PoetUp YouTube: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us: [email protected]

    Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.

    Thank you for listening

  • In part 2 of this episode of the Poet Up Podcast, we talk with Rudy Francisco, exploring the intersection of poetry and corporate sponsorship, the importance of hard work and talent, and the evolving landscape of performance art. We discuss innovative ideas for poetry slams, the value of believing in oneself, and the significance of being coachable in the pursuit of artistic excellence. We also touch on personal experiences in the poetry scene, aspirations for future projects, and the importance of building platforms for poets.

    Rudy Francisco info:

    IG: @rudyfrancisco

    TikTok: @RudyFrancisco

    Website: rudyfrancisco.com

    Chapters

    00:00 The Impact of Performance Anxiety

    16:00 First Experiences and Poetic Process

    17:40 The Pursuit of Perfection in Art

    20:13 Imposter Syndrome and Self-Expectations

    23:27 Game Show: That's Cap

    32:28 Future Aspirations and Creative Independence

    37:11 Freestyle Challenge and Creative Expression

    Freestyle Beat: MallChi Beat

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us: [email protected]

    Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.

    Thank you for listening

  • In the first of this two part episode, we delve into the intricacies of poetry, performance, and the realities of tour life. We discuss Rudy's journey from writing his first poem about a crush to becoming a celebrated poet with appearances on major platforms like Jimmy Fallon. The conversation highlights the connection between sports and poetry, the importance of preparation, and the challenges of maintaining integrity in corporate gigs. Rudy shares insights on the competitive nature of slam poetry and the necessity of continuous growth in one's craft.

    Rudy Fancisco Info:

    IG: @rudyfrancisco

    TikTok: @rudyfrancisco

    Freestyle Beat: Mall Chi Beat

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us: [email protected]

    Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.

    Thank you for listening

  • In this episode we discuss a variety of topics including the recent Grammy Awards, the evolution of hip hop, and the impact of artist rivalries. We talk about Lil Wayne's absence from the Super Bowl, the significance of Kendrick Lamar's Grammy wins, and the emergence of new artists like Doechii. We also talk about the state of poetry in the music industry and concludes with a fun segment called 'That's Cap!'

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

    03:48 Music News and Grammy Highlights

    09:31 The State of Hip Hop

    15:33 Kendrick vs. Drake: The Ongoing Battle

    21:38 Grammy Performances and Reactions

    29:42 Poetry and the Grammy Awards

    32:54 The Authenticity of Spoken Word Poetry

    39:28 The Impact of Grammy Nominations on Future Artists

    43:38 Kendrick Lamar and the Grammy Controversy

    50:20 New Segment: That's Cap!

    56:33 Freestyle Session and Closing Thoughts

    Freestyle Beat: A Mall Chi Production

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter/X:@PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG:@PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030

    Facebook:@PoetUpPodcast

    YouTube:PoetUp YouTube

    Email us:[email protected]

    Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.

    Thank you for listening

  • I'm over it I've done this more times than what I'd like to admit. Just know it's about our friend Tavis (RIP) and we talk junk about stuff and throw shots at CB and 5th Horseman (didn't forget your name this time)

    Anyway it's a good episode and you should listen. Mall Chi out

  • In this episode we chat with father, musician and poet CB about music, poetry, fatherhood and other things so buckle up it's a wild ride.


    Be sure to follow CB on IG @cbthepoet and on YouTube @CBthePoet


    Freestyle beat: some beats I found in my downloads that I don't know where they came from or who made them lol.


    PoetUp Crew:
    Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030
    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030
    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
    Email us at [email protected]
    Rate us, Review us tell a friend about us. Thank you for listening.

  • We are back again folks!

    In this episode, we chat with 2023 Women of the World Slam champion Ayanna Florence about her poetic beginnings and other things.

    Follow Ayanna on IG and X(formerly Twitter) @poetnextdoor

    Freestyle Beat: made by DJ D.R.

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us at [email protected]

    Rate us, Review us tell a friend about us. Thank you for listening.

  • We are back folks! Talking about the Grammy's and other shenanigans. Elijah Craig makes an appearance, sorry there's no timestamps we're rusty.

    Freestyle Beat: A Beat taken from YJB made by Mall Chi

    PoetUp Crew:

    Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030

    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030

    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast

    Email us at [email protected]

    Rate us, Review us tell a friend about us. Thank you for listening.

  • In this special episode we talk about the Of Earth and Sky Project and interview those who submitted to the project and created the project. PoetUp Crew: Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030 IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030 Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast Email us at [email protected] Visit our website: www.poetuppodcast.com Rate us, Review us tell a friend about us. Thank you for listening.

  • In this episode we chat with Charlotte based producer Master Kie. Bluz gets shots fired on him (4:20) Master Kie the meteorologist (5:30) being a woman producer in hip hop (10:02) Master Kie sees sound as color (16:40) no one is on Bluz level (17:00) Jay Ward gets introduced to Lost In Space (21:10) Master Kie wants to collab with Sade but does Mall Chi actually know Sade (22:20) Please Hammer don't hurt us (27:00) the Charlotte hip hop scene and what it needs (35:00) the origins of Before Summer Ends (37:10) Mall Chi has imaginary players beefing with him (44:50) Master Kie is for the orthopedic savior (52:32) Jay Ward throws shade that's not shade (59:40) don't follow Master Kie on Facebook (64:30) and of course we freestyle (67:50)  

    Master Kie Info: 
    Follow Master Kie on IG: @Unlock_Her_Sound and click the link below for all her events, beat tapes and beat purchasing info. 
    https://linktr.ee/masterkie

    Freestyle Beat by Master Kie

    PoetUp Crew: Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030
    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030
    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
    Email us at [email protected]
    Visit our website: www.poetuppodcast.com
    Rate us, Review us tell a friend about us. Thank you for listening.

  • In this episode we speak with Blumenthal Performing Arts Director of Artistic Experiences Bree Stallings. We discuss her year (6:10) the Immersive Van Gogh Experience that Bree was the head of (10:20) the Of Earth and Sky installation poetry project (15:30) Intentions behind the placement of the project (18:35) her artistic beginnings (21:15) Her family life (25:00) we talk about how Bree's artistic integrity and helping other artists(30:25) food as art (48:10) Pee can vs. Puh-con (53:11) creating magic (61:02)  Jay Ward slowly morphs into Dr. Umar King (61:55) aging as artists (67:50) Mall Chi makes a Mark (74:32) and of course we freestyle (78:40)
    Bree Info: 
    Breanna "Bree" Stallings is North Carolina-native multi-media artist, illustrator, writer and activist.
    Bree graduated from Queens University of Charlotte in 2013 with a Bachelor Degree in Studio Art and Creative Writing. She resides near uptown Charlotte where she works as a painter, illustrator and muralist. Currently, she teaches adults and children intermediate and advanced drawing and painting techniques at her studio called the Learning Lab and is the Director of Artistic Experiences for Blumenthal Performing Arts.

    website: www.breestallings.com
    Follow Bree on IG @breequixote

    Freestyle Beat by S. Carter
    PoetUp Crew: Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030
    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030
    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
    Email us at [email protected]
    Visit our website: www.poetuppodcast.com
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  • In this bonus episode, we are bringing you an interview with poet and master storyteller Hannah Hasan. This was recorded April 11, 2021 when the Poet Up crew did live shows at Blumenthal for National Poetry Month (check out our FB page for the live videos). 

    Hannah Info: 2021 Hermitage Fellow Hannah Hasan is an award-winning, highly acclaimed spoken word poet, speaker, and storyteller who believes that our stories can set us free. With themes that center home, social justice, racial justice, women's rights, and more; Hannah is often commissioned to write and perform customized powerful poetry and provide speeches and facilitate workshops for events, conferences, and meetings.
    Check out Hannah's website www.hannahhasan.com 
    Follow Hannah: IG @iamhannahhasan
    Get your tickets to Hannah's live show 'I Am Queen Charlotte' here

    Freestyle Beat by @mallchi

    PoetUp Crew: Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030
    IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030
    Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
    Email us at [email protected]
    Visit our website: www.poetuppodcast.com

    Rate us, Review us tell a friend about us. Thank you for listening.