Versiz

Jamaal “Versiz” May is a poet, producer and recording artist from Detroit, MI. He has been awarded an International Publication Prize by Atlanta Review and a Cave Canem fellowship. His work has appeared in Verse Daily, The MacGuffin, Pedestal Magazine and The Main Street Rag among other magazines and anthologies. Jamaal is a Midwest Regional Poetry Slam Champion, two-time Detroit Slam Champion and two-time Individual World Poetry Slam finalist. He has toured the country extensively giving readings, workshops, performances and lectures in a variety of locations including Cornell University, Indiana University and Norte Dame.



Versiz’ musical talents have garnered him glowing reviews from various local publications including the Metro Times’ best of 2005 music issue. The Michigan Daily says, “Detroit’s most talented rap act and slam poet is the one guy who can make southeast Michigan a respectable haven for independent hip-hop.” The Michigan Chronicle called Versiz’ 2004 hip hop release, Binary Soul, “A lyrically profound effort that is as provocative as it is creative.”



Jamaal holds a degree in Studio Engineering. Production and engineering credits include, The Last Poets, Dead Prez, and The Four Tops. He has shared stages with KRS-One, Proof, Slum Village and Kathleen Battle among others.