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Versiz

Feature date(s): 02/28/2005

Jamaal “Versiz” May is a professional recording artist, poet, and producer. He is Detroit’s 2004 Grand Slam Champion and winner of the Essence of Motown Writer’s Conference Slam. He is also the writer behind the column “What I don’t know Could Fill a Warehouse“ on the soon to be re-launched www.detroitpoetry.com.

Versiz has had the honor of taking the stage as a warm up for KRS-One, Blair (2002 National Championship Team), Mike Ellison (2002 National Championship Team, Def Poetry Jam), Umar Bin Hassan of the legendary Last Poets, Funk Brother Joe Haden (Standing in the Shadows of Motown), Rev. Al Sharpton, MC Serch, Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and numerous local legends.

Metro Times journalist Eve Doster commented that, “[Versiz’] poetry is heavy hearted and sincere. He’s a pro”.

The Michigan Daily has described him as, “Detroit’s most talented slam poet”.

Journalist Terrell Wyche of Open Air says, “He is an exciting, entertaining performer who seems to take you on the emotional journey with him. Versiz is blessed with enthusiasm and sincerity.”

Chicago poet Morris Stegosaurus came to Detroit in the fall of 2004 and later commented on his website that Versiz “…was really good; a strong performer.”