Tag: 2010s Poetry

Read 2010s Poetry written by slam poets, cowboy poets, and literary giants inspired by the state of Arizona on AZpoetry.com!

Kalen Lander

December 5, 2024

Kalen Lander: Poet, Hip-Hop Artist, and Tempe Icon

Kalen Lander, a cornerstone of Arizona’s hip-hop and spoken word scene, has been a defining force in the artistic fabric of Tempe for over a decade. Known for his quick-witted rhymes and improvisational prowess, Lander has built a reputation as a dynamic live performer who brings poetry and hip-hop into every corner of the local music scene. His fearless approach to the stage and collaborative spirit has made him a vital contributor to Arizona’s creative community.

Early Roots and Rise in the Tempe Scene

Kalen Lander’s early years in Tempe cemented his legacy as one of the city’s most respected and sought-after hip-hop artists. At the height of Long Wong’s legendary era—a hotspot for Tempe’s musicians and creatives—Lander worked behind the bar while simultaneously leaving his mark on the stage. Known for his impromptu performances, he would jump into live sets to deliver fresh rhymes and enhance the energy of the moment, embodying the “in the moment” artistry that defines his career.

As the leader of TKLB? (The Kalen Lander Band), Lander became known for his beat-heavy soundscapes and impactful delivery. Though TKLB? never released a full album, Lander’s contributions to the Arizona music scene are significant, with collaborations spanning across genres and groups.

Collaborations and Contributions

Lander’s versatility as an artist has led to partnerships with some of Tempe’s most prominent bands. His hip-hop verses appear on tracks like “Ballad of Dean” and “House of Wood” by Japhy’s Descent, where his voice adds depth and energy to their storytelling. He’s also a frequent contributor to Sister Lip, lighting up their live performances with raps on tracks like “Pure Honey” and “Ride the Pony”.

From lending his talents to Beatles cover sets with Future Loves Past to collaborations with Darkness Dear Boy, Kalen Lander has consistently elevated the performances and recordings of fellow musicians. His ability to merge poetry, rhythm, and improvisation has made him a trusted and celebrated collaborator across Arizona’s creative circles.

Transition to Snailmate

Today, Kalen Lander is best known as half of the rock/hip-hop duo Snailmate, alongside multi-instrumentalist Bentley Monet. Known for their explosive energy and genre-defying sound, Snailmate combines Lander’s signature rap delivery with Monet’s synth-driven melodies, creating an entirely unique experience that continues to garner attention locally and nationally. The duo’s touring schedule and creative output have solidified Lander as a dynamic force in the indie music world.

Lander’s Poetry and Spoken Word Legacy

While primarily celebrated for his music, Kalen Lander’s roots in poetry and spoken word shine through in his intricate lyricism and live performances. A master of improvisation, his ability to craft impactful rhymes on the fly reflects the influence of poetry in his artistry. His presence in Tempe’s spoken word and music communities has inspired countless artists to experiment with blending poetry and hip-hop.

A Champion of Arizona’s Creative Spirit

Kalen Lander’s influence extends beyond the stage. As a collaborator, performer, and community figure, he embodies the innovative and inclusive energy of Arizona’s arts scene. Whether performing as part of Snailmate, jumping onstage for an impromptu rhyme, or amplifying the works of local artists, Lander continues to be a vital figure in the world of Arizona hip-hop and poetry.

Discover more Arizona Poets HERE!

Aaron Hopkins-Johnson

December 5, 2024

Aaron Hopkins-Johnson: Poet, Organizer, and Arts Advocate

Aaron Hopkins-Johnson, a revered artist and writer based in Phoenix, Arizona, has made an indelible impact on the spoken word and poetry communities across the Southwest and beyond. Known for his dynamic performances, tireless event organizing, and advocacy for the arts, Aaron’s influence has stretched across nearly two decades of Arizona’s literary and performance art history.

A Champion in Spoken Word Performance

Aaron’s accolades in performance poetry are both impressive and far-reaching. In 2001, he became the International Poetry Interpretation Champion at the International Forensics Association, showcasing his skill in crafting and delivering emotionally resonant poetry. Over the years, he has performed alongside iconic figures in spoken word and literature, including Gil Scott-Heron, Saul Williams, Buddy Wakefield, Andrea Gibson, Henry Rollins, and Rachel McKibbens, to name just a few.

As a competitor, Aaron represented Arizona on multiple National Poetry Slam (NPS) stages, earning spots on both the Flagstaff Poetry Slam Team and the Phoenix Poetry Slam Team. Notably, he was a Haiku Deathmatch Finalist at NPS and the Arcosanti Slab City Slam Regional Haiku Champion, demonstrating his creative range in both traditional and experimental formats.

Builder of Community and Platforms for Poetry

Aaron’s commitment to fostering the poetry community in Arizona is unparalleled. From 2006 to 2008, he served as the SlamMaster of FlagSlam, ensuring the vibrant Flagstaff poetry scene remained a cornerstone of regional spoken word culture. He also hosted the beloved Monday Night Open Mic at Applesauce Teahouse and directed various flagship events, including the Southwest Shootout Regional Qualifiers, the Treetop Poetry Regional Slam, and the 2014 Individual World Poetry Slam (IWPS).

Additionally, Hopkins-Johnson was on the 2009 Phoenix Poetry Slam team alongside Myrlin Hepworth, The Klute and Ed Mabrey – an incredible team that placed the highest of any slam poetry team from Arizona in a National Poetry Slam. Aaron worked as the Program Director of Operations at NORAZpoets, supporting and mentoring poets throughout Northern Arizona. His legacy as an organizer extends far beyond local borders, making Arizona a vital hub for poetry and performance.

A Decade with Lawn Gnome Publishing

From 2004 to 2023, Aaron operated Lawn Gnome Publishing, a multifaceted space that served as a poetry venue, indie bookstore, and cultural nexus in Phoenix. Hosting events almost daily for nearly two decades, Lawn Gnome became a community cornerstone for Arizona artists, poets, and creatives.

Grant Recipient and Teaching Artist

Aaron’s contributions to Arizona’s arts scene have been recognized with multiple prestigious grants, including funding from the Arizona Humanities Council, National Endowment for the Arts, and the Arizona Commission on the Arts. These grants supported a range of his educational and community projects, from public art installations to teaching artist residencies.

A committed educator, Aaron facilitated workshops and programming at the Mesa Center for the Arts, empowering young poets and fostering a love for the written word. His “We Are One” grant-funded projects through the City of Glendale and his collaborations with the City of Phoenix cemented his legacy as a key figure in Arizona’s arts development.

Published Works and Poetry Collections

Throughout his career, Aaron Hopkins-Johnson published multiple collections of poetry that highlight his wit, depth, and unique voice. His books include:

“Roach Killer For Her”
“Chainsawsmoking“
“Rights4Lefty”
“Watering The Poetry”
“Irony Stinks: My Life Is Irony”

Each collection reflects Aaron’s raw, honest, and unfiltered style, offering readers an intimate glimpse into his creative mind.

Retirement and Legacy

In 2023, Aaron Hopkins-Johnson officially retired from public performances, event organizing, and projects, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of creativity and community impact. His years of tireless work have laid the foundation for future generations of poets, performers, and artists in Arizona and beyond.

Aaron’s story is a testament to the transformative power of art and the importance of building platforms for others to shine. Even in retirement, his influence continues to ripple through Arizona’s poetry scene, cementing his place as one of the most significant contributors to the spoken word community in the Southwest.

Discover more poets of Arizona HERE!

Myrlin Hepworth

December 4, 2024

Myrlin Hepworth: Poet, Educator, and Hip-Hop Artist

Listen to Myrlin on Soundcloud

Myrlin Hepworth is a dynamic force in the world of poetry, blending spoken word, education, and hip-hop into a seamless art form that resonates across generations and cultures. As a poet, teaching artist, and performer, Myrlin has dedicated his career to empowering youth and creating spaces for authentic expression. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, he is a prominent figure in the state’s poetry scene, known for his dedication to building community through the arts and his work as a mentor to aspiring writers and performers.

A Champion for Youth and Education

Myrlin Hepworth has long been a passionate advocate for youth empowerment through creative expression. As a teaching artist, he has worked with thousands of students in Arizona and across the nation, conducting workshops that inspire young people to discover and use their voices. His approach to teaching merges traditional poetry with contemporary elements of hip-hop and spoken word, creating an inclusive and accessible medium for students to tell their stories.

Through his educational work, Myrlin has become a sought-after speaker and facilitator, presenting at schools, colleges, and conferences. His ability to connect with young audiences has made him a key figure in cultivating a new generation of poets and storytellers.

Blending Hip-Hop and Spoken Word

A true multidisciplinary artist, Myrlin’s work combines the energy of hip-hop with the introspection of poetry. His performances are a testament to the power of storytelling, tackling themes such as identity, resilience, and the complexities of the human experience. His music and spoken word pieces reflect a deep commitment to social justice, personal growth, and cultural understanding.

In addition to his live performances, Myrlin has produced music and spoken word recordings that continue to inspire listeners. His ability to weave rhythm and language together has made him a standout voice in the poetry and hip-hop communities.

Contributions to the Arizona Poetry Scene

As a resident of Arizona, Myrlin Hepworth has been instrumental in shaping the local poetry and spoken word landscape. In 2009, Myrlin was on the Phoenix Poetry Slam team that was a tenth of a point shy of making the finals stage. His teammates were Aaron Hopkins-Johnson, The Klute, and Ed Mabrey. His involvement with events, workshops, and community-building initiatives has established him as a leader and mentor in the state’s artistic circles. Myrlin’s work in Arizona not only celebrates the power of poetry but also amplifies voices that might otherwise go unheard.

Awards and Recognition

Myrlin’s influence and impact have earned him recognition both locally and nationally. His contributions to education, the arts, and the community have been celebrated in various circles, cementing his status as a trailblazer in modern poetry and hip-hop fusion.

Legacy of Creativity and Advocacy

Myrlin Hepworth’s work is a shining example of how poetry and hip-hop can be tools for change, healing, and connection. Through his performances, teaching, and community involvement, he continues to inspire others to embrace their creativity and share their stories. His contributions to Arizona’s poetry scene and beyond will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Nick Fox

November 22, 2024

Nick Fox: Founder, Performer, and “The Voice of God” in Slam Poetry

Nick Fox is a celebrated poet, performer, educator, and a pivotal figure in the American slam poetry movement. As the founder of the Flagstaff Poetry Slam and an early competitor in Arizona’s burgeoning poetry slam scene, Fox helped shape the vibrant spoken word community that thrives in the state today. His contributions extend far beyond Arizona, as Fox is also renowned for hosting the finals of the National Poetry Slam for over a decade, where he earned the nickname “The Voice of God” for his commanding presence and resonant delivery.

Early Days in Slam Poetry: The Mesa Years

Nick Fox’s journey into slam poetry began during the first wave of the movement, performing in Mesa, Arizona. As a competitor in the early days of Arizona’s slam scene, Fox showcased his ability to blend compelling storytelling with captivating performance, quickly becoming a standout voice in the community. His work explored themes of humanity, relationships, and the intricacies of everyday life, resonating deeply with audiences. His contributions during this time helped solidify Mesa as a hub for poetry slam in Arizona.

Founding the Flagstaff Poetry Slam

Fox’s passion for creating spaces where poets could thrive led him to establish the Flagstaff Poetry Slam. Under his leadership, the slam became a cornerstone of Flagstaff’s arts and culture scene, drawing poets and audiences from across the state. By fostering an inclusive and dynamic environment, Fox played an instrumental role in building a community where poets of all backgrounds could share their voices.

The Flagstaff Poetry Slam not only became a home for local poets but also attracted some of the most talented spoken word artists from across Arizona. Fox’s ability to nurture new talent and curate engaging events helped make Flagstaff a vibrant hub for spoken word poetry, with ripple effects felt throughout the state’s literary scene.

Hosting the National Poetry Slam Finals: “The Voice of God”

Nick Fox’s influence extended far beyond Arizona when he became the longtime host of the National Poetry Slam finals, one of the most prestigious events in the spoken word world. For over a decade, Fox’s booming voice, charismatic stage presence, and sharp wit elevated the event to new heights. His commanding presence as host earned him the nickname “The Voice of God,” a testament to the respect and admiration he garnered from poets and audiences alike.

Fox’s role as host was not simply about announcing poets or performances—it was about creating an atmosphere of excitement, reverence, and community. His ability to connect with audiences and performers alike made the finals an unforgettable experience, cementing his legacy as a cornerstone of the national slam poetry movement.

Nick Fox as a Writer and Traveler

Beyond his achievements in poetry and performance, Nick Fox is also a prolific writer and avid traveler. His travel blog, “…said the Fox”, chronicles his journeys across the globe, combining his poetic sensibilities with his love of storytelling. Through vivid descriptions and thoughtful reflections, Fox’s blog offers readers a glimpse into his experiences and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

His travel writing explores themes of identity, cultural discovery, and the connections we form with the world around us. The same attention to detail and emotional resonance that defines his poetry shines through in his prose, making his blog a must-read for fans of both travel and literary artistry.

Educator and Mentor

As an educator, Nick Fox has inspired countless poets, performers, and writers to explore their own creative voices. His dedication to fostering talent and building communities has left a lasting impact on Arizona’s literary and performance arts scenes. Fox’s ability to connect with people on a personal level, whether through his poetry or teaching, underscores his commitment to creating spaces where others can thrive.

Fox’s legacy in Arizona poetry is one of mentorship, innovation, and passion. His contributions to slam poetry, both as a competitor and as an organizer, have helped elevate the art form in Arizona and across the country.

Legacy and Influence

Nick Fox’s contributions to slam poetry and the arts have made him a vital figure in Arizona’s literary history. From his beginnings as a slam poet in Mesa to founding the Flagstaff Poetry Slam and hosting the National Poetry Slam finals, Fox has consistently demonstrated a commitment to amplifying voices and building vibrant artistic communities.

His unique blend of poetry, performance, and storytelling continues to inspire audiences and writers alike. Nick Fox’s legacy lives on in the thriving slam poetry scenes he helped cultivate and the countless poets he has mentored and influenced throughout his career.

For more about Nick Fox’s writing and travels, visit his blog at nickfox.wordpress.com.

Discover more poets and writers from Arizona HERE.

Dom Flemons

November 22, 2024

Dom Flemons: From Arizona Slam Poetry to Grammy-Winning Folk Musician

Dom Flemons, widely known as “The American Songster,” is a versatile poet, songwriter, and musician whose work has made a profound impact on Arizona’s creative landscape. Born and raised in Phoenix, Flemons began his artistic journey in the state’s rich artistic and cultural communities. His evolution from a prominent slam poet in Flagstaff to a Grammy-winning roots musician is a testament to his dynamic talent and dedication to storytelling through both words and music.

Early Life in Arizona and Musical Beginnings

Growing up in Phoenix, Flemons was captivated by diverse musical traditions, from folk to blues, which laid the foundation for his future as an acclaimed musician. During this time, he also began exploring poetry and storytelling as a means of creative expression. Early on, Flemons performed in coffee houses and small venues across Arizona, building a reputation for his engaging performances and passion for traditional American music.

Flemons became a prolific figure in Arizona’s creative circles, producing 25 albums featuring local singer-songwriters and poets, including six of his own projects. These early experiences helped shape his artistic vision and introduced him to the vibrant cultural traditions of the Southwest.

Slam Poetry Days in Flagstaff

Flemons attended Northern Arizona University (NAU) in Flagstaff, where he earned a degree in English. His academic focus encompassed creative writing, Latin, Greco-Roman literature, Shakespeare, and poetry, further enriching his artistic palette. During his time at NAU, Flemons immersed himself in the dynamic slam poetry scene, which was flourishing in Flagstaff.

As a slam poet, Flemons collaborated and competed with some of Arizona’s most notable poets, including Aaron Hopkins-Johnson, The Klute, Logan Phillips, John Kofonow, and Suzy Lafollette. In 2002, Flemons represented Flagstaff at the National Poetry Slam in Minneapolis as part of the city’s slam poetry team, finishing 35th out of 56 teams. His performances were known for their sharp wit, rhythm, and powerful storytelling, reflecting his ability to blend poetic expression with performance art.

Transition to Music and National Success

After making his mark in slam poetry, Flemons returned to his first love: music. His passion for preserving and performing traditional American roots music led him to co-found the Carolina Chocolate Drops, a Grammy-winning group dedicated to reviving African American string band traditions. The band’s groundbreaking album, “Genuine Negro Jig,” won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album in 2010.

As a solo artist, Flemons has continued to celebrate and innovate within the folk music genre. His critically acclaimed album “Black Cowboys“ (2018) was a Grammy Award nominee for Best Folk Album and earned a Blues Music Award nomination in the Acoustic Album category. The album sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of African Americans to the history of the American West, blending music, poetry, and storytelling to create a vivid narrative.

Legacy in Arizona and Beyond

Dom Flemons’ artistic journey from the slam poetry stages of Flagstaff to international acclaim as a Grammy-winning musician highlights his unparalleled versatility and commitment to storytelling. His early years in Arizona’s poetry and performance communities played a pivotal role in shaping his creative voice, and he continues to inspire artists and audiences with his dedication to preserving America’s cultural heritage.

Flemons’ work, whether through poetry or music, reflects his deep appreciation for history, identity, and the power of words to connect people. From his time as a slam poet in Flagstaff to his groundbreaking contributions to American roots music, Dom Flemons remains a treasured figure in Arizona’s artistic legacy.

For more about Dom Flemons and his creative journey, visit his official website at The American Songster.

Discover more poets and writers from Arizona HERE.

Joy Young

November 22, 2024

Joy Young: A Dynamic Storyteller and Performance Poet

Joy Young is a versatile storyteller, performance poet, educator, and curriculum development expert whose work is dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices in the literary and performance arts. With a career spanning national stages, classrooms, and community spaces, Joy uses storytelling as a transformative tool for connection, healing, and justice.

Joy Young’s storytelling has been featured on prominent platforms like Button Poetry, Everyday Feminism, and SlamFind, showcasing their ability to captivate audiences with raw honesty and powerful narratives. They have performed at festivals, colleges, LGBTQIA+ events, and fundraising initiatives across the United States.

Known for their magnetic stage presence, Joy has opened for celebrated artists such as Andrea Gibson, Buddy Wakefield, Sonya Renee Taylor, and Denise Jolly. Formerly the co-host and co-producer of The Storyline Slam, Joy cultivated a space for storytelling at Changing Hands Bookstore in Phoenix, Arizona. Recently, they relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where they continue to engage with the local arts scene.

Educator and Facilitator

As an educator, Joy Young develops and leads poetry and storytelling workshops, storytelling circles, and various trainings designed for individuals interested in writing, performing, and teaching.

Joy’s teaching emphasizes trauma-informed practices and affirmative feedback methodologies, ensuring participants feel safe, supported, and empowered to share their stories. Their work fosters creativity, connection, and self-expression in diverse communities.

Storytelling Coaching and Consultation

In addition to performing and teaching, Joy offers storytelling coaching and consultation for individuals, organizations, and projects. Their expertise has been utilized by:

Non-profit organizations for policy, advocacy, and fundraising storytelling
Museums curating narratives into educational formats
Authors and creatives seeking guidance on crafting impactful stories

Joy also works with groups to shape their narratives into cohesive, compelling collections.

Justice Studies and Storytelling Research

Joy Young holds an MS in Justice Studies from Arizona State University, where their academic work focused on storytelling as a tool for empowerment and advocacy. Their capstone project, “Your Story is More than a Survival Guide,” is an open-source storytelling guide designed for individuals and groups. This guide is available for free on their website and provides actionable strategies for creating impactful stories rooted in personal experience.

National Recognition and Artistic Contributions

Joy’s performances and workshops have been featured at leading arts and storytelling events nationwide. Their dedication to using art as a tool for activism has earned them recognition in the performance poetry and education communities. Whether performing on stage, leading a workshop, or curating stories, Joy’s work highlights the profound power of storytelling in fostering empathy and change.

A Mission to Amplify Marginalized Voices

Joy Young’s work reflects their deep commitment to elevating marginalized voices, promoting equity, and fostering understanding. Through performance, education, and advocacy, they continue to create spaces where diverse stories are valued and heard.

For more information about Joy’s workshops, performances, or storytelling resources, visit their website at joyyoung.org.

Discover more poets and writers from Arizona HERE.

“Here’s What You Do” by Mikel Weisser

November 12, 2024

Here’s what you do:
You take every chance to make it
Never say no to anything
If you want it
Take the minute to take that every effort
‘cause chances not only come
But they go
Here’s where you go
You go that extra mile wherever it takes you
You go where you must
Where only fools tread
You go that extra mile
Especially when no one’s watching
You take that very first chance
To admit each and every one of your mistakes
Then still dive right off that next cliff
As if there’s a water cup waiting just the way you planned
Especially when you do not believe
That that’s true
Here is what I’ll do
Look before leaping then leap anyway
Run till I drop but land when I fall
Then rise from my weeping till I glow like the sun.

About the poet Mikel Weisser

Mikel Weisser was the son of a nightclub singer, a contestant on “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire”, the founder of the So-Hi Peace Sign Themepark, a middle school history teacher, a touring poet, an accomplished guitar player and songwriter, an elected official of the Arizona State Legislature, and a marijuana activist that saw a cultural shift during his tenure. Learn more about the late, great renaissance man and poet HERE.

Valence

October 11, 2024

Valence: Arizona-Based Performance Poet and New Media Artist

Tyler “Valence” Sirvinskas, known professionally as Valence, is a performance poet, new media artist, and visionary creative based in Arizona. Blending spoken word poetry, performance art, electronic music, and visual art, Valence has become a unique figure in the contemporary poetry and art scene. His interdisciplinary approach brings together different media to craft performances that captivate and engage audiences on multiple sensory levels.

Early Life and Background

Born and raised in Chicago, Valence grew up as part of the last generation to experience life before the rise of the internet and digital technology. This sense of nostalgia for the pre-digital era informs much of his artistic perspective, and he is known for his strong advocacy of finding moments disconnected from technology. His work often reflects a deep appreciation for real, human connection that transcends the screens of smartphones and the noise of constant connectivity.

Poetry Slam and Performance Career

Valence’s journey into the world of performance poetry began in 2011 when he started competing in poetry slams, quickly making a name for himself within Arizona’s poetry scene. That same year, he represented Flagstaff at the prestigious National Poetry Slam, showcasing his talent and establishing his place among Arizona’s spoken word performers.

In 2012, Valence’s performance career hit another milestone when he won the Sedona Grand Slam, earning him a spot on Sedona’s National Slam Team. His work combines powerful spoken word with an avant-garde performance style, often exploring themes of technology, human connection, and the evolving relationship between people and their environments.

Artistry and New Media Work

Beyond poetry, Valence is an accomplished new media artist, incorporating electronic music, visual art, and performance art into his creative portfolio. His performances are often an amalgamation of these forms, pushing the boundaries of traditional spoken word by layering sound, visuals, and performance to create immersive artistic experiences.

Valence’s work examines the tension between old and new, often delving into themes that question the role of technology in our lives, and the impact it has on our relationships and self-awareness. His artistic vision encourages audiences to reflect on their interactions with technology and to seek moments of clarity and connection beyond the digital sphere.

Recent Work and Future Projects

In 2024, Valence self-published a small collection of poetry titled Save It For The Angels. The collection reflects his deep engagement with themes of spirituality, existential questioning, and the influence of technology on modern life. The work received positive reception in the Arizona poetry community for its innovative blend of traditional poetry with contemporary issues.

Looking ahead, Valence has plans to further expand his creative output by launching a fashion line, which will fuse his visual artistry with wearable designs, and continue to push his interdisciplinary vision forward. His artistic goals aim to connect different mediums, creating a holistic expression of his ideas across multiple forms of media.

Impact and Influence

Valence’s contributions to the Arizona poetry scene have helped bridge the gap between traditional poetry and more experimental forms of performance art. He has become known for his ability to blend poetry with new media, making his performances and written works resonate across different audiences. His advocacy for unplugging from technology and creating authentic, real-world connections stands as a central theme in his work, positioning him as both a poet and a cultural commentator.

Through his continued work in poetry, art, and performance, Valence represents a new generation of artists who are unafraid to explore the complexities of modern life, while still holding onto the importance of analog moments and human connection.

Discover more poets of Arizona HERE.

Christopher Fox Graham

June 5, 2024

Nestled in the heart of Sedona, Arizona, amidst the striking red rock formations and the whispered secrets of the desert winds, resides a poet whose verses echo with the rugged beauty of the Southwest. Christopher Fox Graham, affectionately known as CFG, is not merely a poet and writer; he is a literary force that has left an indelible mark on the Northern Arizona poetry scene.

The Journey Begins

Graham’s poetic odyssey began in Flagstaff, Arizona, where he represented the city on an astounding twelve National Poetry Slam teams. A true testament to his unwavering commitment and artistry, Graham’s participation spanned from 2001 to 2018, showcasing his enduring love for the craft. Each performance was a melodic tapestry of words and emotions, a testament to the power of language in the hands of a master wordsmith.

The Mastermind Behind the Mic

In the mystical realm of Sedona’s poetry scene, Graham assumes the role of slammaster, guiding the poetic spirits of the community. His influence extends beyond the stage, as he orchestrates the rhythm of Sedona’s slam poetry gatherings, creating an atmosphere where words flow like desert rivers, carving their paths through the minds of listeners.

A Global Poetic Odyssey

Graham’s journey as a poet has extended far beyond the boundaries of the United States. In 2002, he embarked on the “Save the Male Tour,” a four-man international spoken word tour. This journey took his verses across borders and cultures, proving that the power of poetry transcends geographical confines.

The Competitive Spirit

Graham’s poetry is marked not only by its lyrical beauty but also by a competitive streak that has defined his journey. He is renowned as one of the most statistically obsessive slam poets in Northern Arizona. His relentless pursuit of excellence and success on the slam poetry stage has not always been without strife, but it is this very drive that has pushed him to poetic heights.

Jedis and Padawans

Graham has a unique perspective on the world of slam poetry, believing that all slam poets are like Jedi knights in the realm of words. In keeping with this philosophy, he has dedicated himself to mentoring aspiring poets through the Erus/Parvalas Mentorship and his Treatise on Slam Strategy. Like a wise Jedi guiding their padawans, Graham imparts his knowledge and insight to the next generation of slam poets.

Verses Beyond Borders

Graham’s poetry has transcended the stage and the written page. His words have resonated across the airwaves, reaching audiences through MTV’s “Made” and The Travel Channel‘s “Your Travel Guide” episode of Sedona. He has taken his poetry on a grand tour, sharing his verses in nearly 40 states, Canada, Ireland, and Great Britain. His verses have become a bridge, connecting hearts and minds across oceans and continents.

Christopher Fox Graham, or CFG, is more than a poet; he is a living testament to the enduring power of words. His journey has been one of poetic exploration, competition, mentorship, and connection. He has etched his verses into the landscape of Sedona and the annals of slam poetry history. As the red rocks of Arizona stand steadfast, so too does CFG’s legacy in the world of poetry, a legacy that will continue to inspire and shape the poetic voices of the future.