Slam Poetry

Slam poetry is a genre that fuses spoken word performance with musical elements, characterized by its emphasis on rhythm, cadence, and lyrical dexterity. Emerging in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in the US and UK, slam poetry drew from jazz, hip-hop, and punk traditions, often incorporating percussive beats, basslines, and sampled instrumentation. At its peak in the 1990s and early 2000s, the genre became a powerful platform for social commentary, critique, and personal narrative, with poets using their words to address issues of racism, identity, and politics. Slam poetry's cultural significance lies in its democratization of poetry, making it more accessible and performative, while also influencing hip-hop, rap, and contemporary spoken word. Notable for its fusion of literary and musical elements, slam poetry is distinct from other spoken word styles due to its emphasis on competitive performance, audience engagement, and the use of musical accompaniment to enhance the emotional impact of the words.

The Water is Rising / as we surpass the firing squad . . .

Saul Williams•

Carlos Niño & Friends

Single - Released August 7, 2025