A. Jarrell Hayes

I read my poem "From Negus to Nigger."

This poem is about what people trade in order to gain what they perceive as success, thus making them mental slaves.

I read my poem "Breathe."

This poem is about the connection humanity shares with one another, one collective breath. What happens to one person effects humanity as a whole.

I read my poem "My America."

This poem is about perceptions of America being the "Land of the Free" depends upon who you talk to. The speaker is haunted by the ghost of Dred Scott.

I read my poem "Fuckitall."

This poem has graphic language. Be prepared when you listen to it. The poem is about how to manage life and set-backs. Do you just try to manage the symptoms, or do you try to fix the cause of the problems?

I read my poem "Six Inches to the Right."

Inspiration for this poem came from the real life story of NBA superstar Paul Pierce who survived a stabbing incident in 2000. Paul's nickname on the court is "The Truth."

*Note: though the poem is inspired by those events, it is not a recount of the events.

I read my poem "DJ Hero."

The title comes from the popular video game of the same name. Music is a powerful tool.