SHAWN WILLIAM
The Best Spoken Word Poetry Album category, a designation which debuted at the 2023 GRAMMY awards, continues to stir the poetry world with excitement. The new classification allows poets increased visibility, with the chance to have their work honored by the Recording Academy during “Music’s Biggest Night.”
Now, a second crop of lyrical powerhouses will receive their moment of recognition during the 66th Annual GRAMMY Awards on February 4th, 2024.
The six nominated poets for the 2024 ceremony are: Queen Sheba, Prentice Powell, Shawn William, Kevin Powell, J. Ivy and aja monet.
The Poet’s List is happy to present our interview with skillful spoken word artist and GRAMMY nominee: Shawn William.
On Poetry:
Prior to landing on poetry, what memories do you have of your relationship with literature and writing as a youth?
I used to get in trouble a lot as a kid. And, when I did, my mother would make me write, “I will not ___ again,” 50, 100, 200 times as my punishment. Those, “I will not ___ again,” sentences turned into short stories and rhymes. It strengthened me as a writer, but pissed off my mother.
There are so many layers to creating poetry, and several avenues for disseminating. Which aspect of the process excites you the most?
I get excited about the process. When an idea hits me, I grab a pen, my phone, or [I] jump on the keyboard… and words just flow out. It normally starts with a line. Then, I build around that line. From there, I read it hundreds of times until it makes sense. Memorize it. Perform it for the first time. And let the crowd’s response help me edit.
On Career:
When did you begin to claim the title of poet and how did you first connect with the poetry community?
In all honesty, I don’t consider myself a “poet”, but more as a spoken word artist. No offense to any poets because, without them, the world would be weak. But in my honest opinion, anyone can be a “poet” and write poetry. Not everyone can do what I do as a spoken word artist.
I am an entertainer, comic, storyteller, instrument, and emcee, who writes and communicate words, poetically. That’s a gift and skill that I work on every day. It’s the difference between a person who is funny and [one who is] a comedian. There are levels to this, and I’m blessed to be one of the ones to take my skills to the highest level.
Your work in the poetry sector has spanned print, entertainment, and education! You’ve authored two books; toured with Jill Scott; performed at major festivals, as well as on TV; and have taught workshops at several prestigious universities. At the inception of your career, did you envision this level of success?
No, not at all. I was just an angry young black man, wanting to be heard because I was in a lot of pain. When I got my first feature for $50, I felt that I made it and could retire. I never thought I’d tour with Jill Scott, get a residency at the Kennedy Center, or [get] nominated for a Grammy.
Speaking of Jill: The last show that we did with her in Indianapolis, she said, “I hope that I still see you around because the world needs to see black men on big stages.”
Well, Jill… I’m back!
When conducting a poetry workshop, what is your favorite topic to speak on?
Finding yourself as a writer, so you can be yourself as an artist.
Of your body of work, which piece or collection would you like to serve as your *introduction* for the generations to come?
I’m still writing it.
We would love to hear more about, For Your Consideration ’24. Please feel free to share as much as you’d like with regards to its creation, its reception and what it means to you.
For Your Consideration ’24, is a celebration of life. A perfectly blended bond of two black men who have known each other for 20 years. We speak on healing, fatherhood, traumas, triggers, depression [and] love. A 58-minute emotional roller coaster. The album, artistry and campaign created by Prentice, Matt and I should be studied for years to come because it’s a masterclass on how to manifest things into greatness.
When it comes to FYC’24 collaborator—poet, Prentice Powell—what can you say about his creativity, his current legacy, and your friendship?
Prentice is a machine, with Kobe Bryant-focus on details of wanting greatness. He’s a superstar the world is missing out on. Show his performance, without words and just watch his precise movements and it’s like watching Kyrie with the ball in the open court. Get in his way and it’s going to look bad for you.
As for “friendship”—that ended about 10 years ago. He’s my brother.
In what ways would you like to see the poetry community grow and evolve in the coming years?
I’d like to see the poetry community step into the 21st century. Become more entertaining and less cliché.
Awards + Advice:
What does it mean to be honored by The Recording Academy as part of the Best Spoken Word Poetry Album category at this year’s GRAMMY Awards?
It’s a lifetime achievement award for me. For years, I’ve been spoken word’s best kept secret. But if you research what I’ve contributed as an artist and curator, you’d understand why I deserve to be on Grammy stages and much more.
How would you describe your fellow cohort of nominated poets?
We’re tangible. You see many of us in poetry venues across the country, which lets other poets know [that] the Grammy’s and other awards are possible.
What has been the greatest piece of advice you’ve received thus far (poetry related or other)?
I have two:
“Malcolm X told jokes, so learn how to be more entertaining with your militant”
and
“Anyone can be ‘The Man’ in their own neighborhood. How good are you outside of it?”
Please tune into the 66th annual Grammy Awards which will air live on February 4, 2024 on CBS. The winner for Best Spoken Word Poetry Album will be announced during the pre-telecast.
Links:
Site: iamshawnwilliam.com
Twitter: @iamshawnwilliam
Instagram: @iamshawnwilliam
Facebook: Shawn William
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