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I happen to be a big fan of poetry. It may be because I cannot do it that I am so impressed by it but either I feel like it doesn’t get enough mainstream coverage. Def Poetry is an old HBO show that covered a specific form or poetry called Spoken Word.  Usually spoken word is known for being raw, blunt and NSFW.  If you are at your job, I suggest you either not play these videos or put on some headphones.

Poetry has the power to captivate the mind, spirit and emotions. Here are 10 of the best of Def Poetry performances ever.  Not necessarily the 10 best, just 10 of the best.

Black Ice

Saul Williams – Coded Language

Georgia Me – NigGODs

Javon Johnson – Elementary

Dave Chappelle

He was definitely high during this performance.

Al B Back – Super Negro

Suheir Hammad

Alicia Keys – POW

Talib Kweli