We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Khoree The Poet a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Khoree The Poet, appreciate you joining us today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Certainly! I have been able to achieve a full-time living from my Poetry performances, thanks to a journey that began with humble open mic sessions in Oakland, Ca. Gradually, I carved out my own space in the local scene by creating intimate shows at small venues, where I connected with the audience through the power of my spoken word. As word of my talent spread, I found myself getting hired alongside comedians for local shows, broadening my reach and appeal.

To take my performances to new heights, I decided to blend music and singing into some of my spoken word poems. One particular piece titled “Black Woman” struck a chord with the San Francisco Bay Area community, gaining immense popularity and earning me a coveted Grammy FYC Nomination. The growing interest in my unique form of Poetry, accompanied by a live band and singers, propelled my popularity further, leading to more bookings and shows.

In 2014, I took a significant step by hosting and producing my very own show, and it turned out to be a resounding success, selling out 750 seats. This achievement was not only a personal milestone but also a recognition of the rising influence of Poetry performances in the Bay Area, as the local radio station lauded it as the largest Sold Out Poetry show ever held in the region.

With this triumph, the entertainment community began to take notice, and I earned a newfound respect as an artist. As my reputation grew, I collaborated with accomplished music producer Levi Seacer, renowned for his work with the legendary Prince, to craft a full CD that skillfully intertwined Poetry with music and song.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am Contemporary R&B Poet/Spoken Word Artist that performs a fusion of Spoken Word, music and Song into what I call a “Poetic Concert.”

I deliver clever, thought provoking, mesmerizing poems with silky smooth music that leave my listeners applauding, talking, laughing, and gasping while the eloquent words take them on an exciting and unique lyrical journey.

My poetry aims to uplift, empower and encourage women to not give up on love and/or hope. The sensual style and delivery is fused with Jazz, R&B and even Gospel instrumental elements, accompanied by smooth background vocals.

My deep voice and delivery have been likened to a Barry White toned voice, blended with an aggressive Teddy Pendergrass attitude and Babyface lyrical style. This has set me apart from other performers in the entertainment industry.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Implement policies that encourage and protect the creative community. This may include tax incentives for patrons of the arts or laws that protect artists’ rights.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Writing poetry is art and creating art can be deeply fulfilling on a personal level. It allows me to explore my inner thoughts, feelings, and experiences, leading to a sense of self-discovery and growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.khoreethepoet.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/khoreethepoet
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialkhoreethepoet
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khoreethepoet/
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/khoreethepoet
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/khoreethepoet