In this episode of 'IN the Beginning,' host I AM Tasha Jones talks with her sista friend Tamika "Georgia Me" Harper, the celebrated poet and performer. They discuss Georgia's journey, her roots in Atlanta, to becoming a prominent voice in spoken word and poetry.

Georgia shares her experiences with identity, community, and the power of her voice, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and representation. The conversation also delves into her time on Def Poetry Jam, the challenges faced in the industry, and the impact of her upbringing on her artistry. Georgia's reflections on Broadway and her aspirations for the future highlight her commitment to uplifting her community and embracing her identity as a black woman.

Georgia shares personal anecdotes about unexpected encounters with music legends like Stevie Wonder and Harry Belafonte, reflecting on the inspiration they provide. The discussion transitions into the challenges and opportunities within the entertainment industry, particularly regarding the future of poetry on Broadway and the importance of marketing.

She goes on to emphasize the role of poets in society, the significance of language as a cultural tool, and the responsibility of artists to empower their communities. The conversation culminates in a powerful message about preparation and self-worth in the arts.

Keywords:

#GeorgiaMe #spokenword #poetry #Atlanta #identity #community #authenticity #influences #DefPoetryJam #Broadway #StevieWonder #HarryBelafonte #Broadway #culturalidentity #marketing #empowerment #language #socialjustice

Key Takeaways:

• Georgia Me emphasizes the power of her voice in empowering others.
• Her identity as a black woman from Atlanta shapes her artistry.
• The importance of community support in her journey as a poet.
• Access to black excellence was a significant part of her upbringing.
• Authenticity is crucial for personal and artistic expression.
• Influences from historical figures like Martin Luther King inspire her work.
• The experience of being on Def Poetry Jam was transformative yet challenging.
• She reflects on the disparities in recognition for poets in the industry.
• Georgia's journey highlights the importance of representation in the arts.

• We need to take pictures on stage with celebrities.
• I wouldn't be going back to Broadway without proper compensation.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Georgia Me

03:08 The Essence of Georgia Me

06:12 The Journey into Poetry

09:23 Influences and Inspirations

12:23 The Impact of Community and City

15:14 Brilliance and Authenticity

18:13 Legacy and Black Excellence

28:29 The Power of Authenticity and Blackness

31:09 Education and Representation in the Black Community

31:28 The Importance of Love and Self-Esteem

32:27 Friendship and Support in Personal Growth

33:18 The Journey of Def Poetry Jam

40:21 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

44:27 The Disrespect of Poets in the Industry

53:27 Unexpected Encounters with Legends

55:03 Moments of Inspiration and Recognition

56:00 Navigating the Hollywood Scene

58:44 The Future of Poetry on Broadway

01:01:35 The Importance of Marketing in the Arts

01:05:00 The Stories We Choose to Tell

01:09:03 Language as a Cultural Bridge

01:12:21 Writing for Ourselves, Not Others

01:15:44 The Need for Authentic Representation

01:18:15 Empowerment and Accountability in the Community

01:21:35 The Role of Poets in Times of Crisis

01:23:22 Cultural Legacy and Ancestral Connection

01:27:45 Reflections on Personal Growth and Lessons Learned

01:30:07 The Future of Poetry and Its Respect

01:36:18 Preparation and Self-Worth in the Arts

01:38:44 ITBP Ending

Available now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. Tune in. Bear witness. Be moved.
@itbspokenwordpod | #SpokenWordPodcast #GeorgiaME #1SpokenWordPod #KeepersOfTheCulture #FavoraintFair #GodSaidYes #IAM @iamtashajones

CREDITS:

IN the Beginning Theme Music

Seoul Rep

Music Credit: Dokk Savage

Lyrics: I AM Tasha Jones