Spoken Word

Spoken Word

Spoken Word is a Chicago group made up of Spree Israel, Redstorm, Koop and C-Note P. The members have backgrounds in hip hop, spoken word and R&B, and they also write, rap, sing and produce music. The group forms from four friends who combine their individual musical experience under the name Gradschool, later presented as Gradschool Entertainment.

Early work and themes

The group focuses on violence in Chicago and on urging people to reject guns and street violence. One of their best-known releases is Cease Tha Fire: The Message Volume 1, which is framed around the message “Put The Guns Down”. It is inspired by an article about Maya Lyons, an 11-year-old girl murdered in Chicago in 2008. The project features some of Chicago’s prominent entertainers and includes narration by civil rights leaders Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.

Gospel material and church connection

After their secular work, the group turns towards gospel music. They enter a church near their home and studio and are welcomed there, then dedicate their lives to the Lord. Their first gospel album, A New Beginning, is named after their church home, New Beginning. The album is presented as part of their ministry work.

Support and local recognition

The group’s ministry is supported by people they meet, including actor Mel Jackson, Pastor Corey Brooks of New Beginning Church, Darryl King of WCU 102.7, and Todd Stronger, described as Cook County Broad President.