Watch Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry

Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry is a television series that premiered on HBO in 2002. It is a showcase of spoken word and slam poetry, featuring some of the most talented and groundbreaking performers in the genre. The show is hosted by Russell Simmons, the founder of Def Jam Records, who is known for his contributions to the world of hip-hop and his support of the spoken word movement. Simmons introduces each episode, providing a brief overview of what viewers can expect from the performances that follow.

One of the most notable performers on the show is Yasiin Bey, who was known as Mos Def at the time of the show's airing. Bey is a rapper, actor, and spoken word artist who has been praised for his skillful wordplay and socially conscious themes. He frequently appears on the show, delivering powerful and resonant performances that touch on topics like race, politics, and the human experience.

Another standout performer is Lemon Andersen, a poet and playwright who is known for his raw and emotional performances. Andersen's work often deals with his personal experiences growing up in Brooklyn, including his struggles with addiction and his time in prison. His performances are intense and heart-wrenching, and serve as a reminder of the power of poetry to expose the realities of life in all its complexity.

In addition to these two artists, the show features a wide range of other performers, each bringing their own unique voice and perspective to the stage. Some are veterans of the spoken word scene, while others are newcomers who are just starting to make a name for themselves.

Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry is a groundbreaking show that helped to popularize slam poetry and push it into the mainstream. It showcased a diverse range of voices and perspectives, and provided a platform for poets to express themselves in new and innovative ways. The show was especially important for giving a platform to artists of color, who are often underrepresented in mainstream media.

One of the most compelling aspects of the show is how it blends elements of music and theater into the poetry performances. Many of the poets on the show have a strong background in music, and their performances are often accompanied by live instrumentation or pre-recorded beats. This creates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that draws viewers in and keeps them captivated throughout each episode.

Overall, Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry is a must-watch for anyone interested in poetry, spoken word, or the power of art to inspire and enact change. It remains a landmark series that helped to bring the spoken word movement into the mainstream, and its impact can still be felt today in the many poets and performers who continue to push the boundaries of the form.

Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry is a series that ran for 8 seasons (55 episodes) between December 15, 2001 and on HBO