The Power of Spoken Word in our Communities

Music, poetry, and soul seeped out of the hearts of several local artists as they shared their own black experiences to the community of Roanoke, Virginia. The Speakeasy is the second show hosted by Ashley Rhame, the Poet and Xavier Duckett, whom were inspired on a trip to The Arts showcase in Norfolk, Virginia. Almost three years later, the vision has manifested to serve the community we live. The Speakeasy gave a platform to poets in Roanoke and surrounding areas to share their black experiences.

When the clock struck eight o’clock, 601 Inc. was alive, people ready to network and shop with local vendors. The Speakeasy’s house band, led by Cameron Hughes, prepared the audience with smooth tunes as the venue continued to fill up with beautiful people from diverse backgrounds. Jazz sounds by Ernie & Justin of Mojo Sauce & Lazy Dub Man Band provided a genuine speakeasy atmosphere. Rhianna Roper mesmerized the audience with a voice that has the power to pierce your skin and touch your soul. The audiences’ support matched each artist and musician’s energy, creating a contagious energy throughout the night. It was very likely you were standing beside someone you did not know, an old classmate, or even a familiar stranger. There were no ways to maneuver the venue without communicating with one another; whether it was an “Excuse me”, or “Is this seat taken?”, or “I love your hair or outfit!” These easy ice breakers made for an open and inviting atmosphere that connected one another.

There were two rounds of poetry and no one failed in the art of delivering passionate and transparent pieces. Poets came from surrounding areas such as Lynchburg, Danville, Blacksburg, and Charlottesville. Black experiences of love, death, violence, religion, and peace were shared which made for an emotional journey throughout the night. Some of the poets reminisced on their past experience with being on 11th Street and the neighborhood. One poet, Monique The Plus Poet of Danville, realized this was the same area she frequented as a child to visit family. She went on to do a heart-wrenching poem that told the story of a victim of domestic violence. The power of spoken word was exemplified by the emotion that crossed every member of the audience as every poet gave their final words.

There are not many venues directly placed within residential area. The Speakeasy could have easily been placed in a downtown location in order to accommodate the expected number of people and ambiance related to the nature of the show. However, as 601 Inc. on 11th street is occupied by young black business owner Xavier Duckett. The venue is also situated in a part of the North West community that is often overlooked. The organizers chose to have the event in this venue to bring more love, creativity, and soul to the neighborhood. At one point in Roanoke’s black history, black owned businesses and entertainment riddled this same very area which is now in serious need of redevelopment. Through spoken word and music, we have the power to spread our culture in ways the minister to one’s soul.