Shawn William

Official Site of Grammy Nominated
Artist

Books

Tall, Dark & Healing

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Works

Bio

Shawn William is a Grammy-nominated spoken word artist, national poetry finalist, published author & storyteller from Oakland, California. With over two decades dedicated to his craft, he has built a reputation as a powerful and captivating voice in contemporary poetry. Shawn has graced some of the nation’s most iconic stages, including the Apollo Theater and Radio City Music Hall. His work has also been featured

on major platforms such as The Essence Festival, The Arsenio Hall Show, and Verses and Flow. He has toured with Grammy-winning artist Jill Scott and was selected as one of only five artists for a prestigious residency at The Kennedy Center. Through his work, Shawn William is committed to building a legacy his family, community, and supporters can be proud of while reshaping the narrative of Oakland to reflect its richness, resilience, and brilliance.

Bio

In The Press

Dwayne Morgan - Producer “When Brothers Speak” & “When Sisters Speak”

“Shawn William is a necessary voice in contemporary writing and the spoken word. Armed with wit and candor, Shawn tackles difficult subject matter, reminding us of the humanity that lies in every moment and experience.”

Grammy Nominated Artist Marc Marcel

Shawn William is one of those rare artists whose humanity is inseparable from his art. I honestly don’t know what I admire more, Shawn William the man, or Shawn William the artist, because the truth is, one gives life to the other. His work is raw, honest, and laced with a sarcasm so sharp it leaves a mark. Experiencing Shawn’s writing made me realize something personal: he is the kind of poet I might have been if I had chosen a different road. He doesn’t just write, he immerses you. He brings you so fully into the moment that you feel as though you are standing inside the scene yourself

Alexander Pyerse, Owner of Lex Pyerse Clothing

I've known him since he was Ner City. I've always enjoyed his shows. I've seen him in Sacramento, Los Angeles, and Oakland. I've loved his growth as an artist. He's never afraid to try new things or to go outside his comfort zone. I see nothing but success and evolution is his