In August 2012, The B.L.A.C.K. Poets began a monthly event called Groove Speak at The 567 Center for Renewal, a Knight Arts grantee. “B.L.A.C.K.” is an acronym for “Believing Love and Cherishing Knowledge.” The group is comprised of artists who live throughout Georgia who have come together to “use spoken word to promote unity and positive change in their communities.”

Groove Speak events feature nationally known poets and local and regional spoken word artists, many of whom are members of the B.L.A.C.K. Poets collective, such as Mike Scott (see video above). Each event also offers a limited number of open mic spots, allowing audience members to become performers. On January 28, Groove Speak will feature National Poetry Slam Champion Queen Sheba.

Groove Speak is a monthly event held at The 567 Center for Renewal.

The 567 Center for Renewal is located at 533 Cherry St., Macon; 478-238-6051; www.the567.org. Doors open at 7 p.m. and show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 advance, $7 at the door. Learn more at www.blackwordsinspire.com.