April is National Poetry Month!
Cordney “MAC Woods” McClain is an exceptionally talented poet who is deeply passionate about the art of spoken word. His performances are nothing short of captivating and have the power to inspire a love for literature in people from all walks of life. His magnetic presence and commanding stage presence are a testament to his years of experience as both a performer and an educator. He has a unique ability to connect with audiences and create a sense of community through his words. Cordney’s expertise in the field of poetry is unmatched, and he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to any platform on which he performs. Whether he is sharing his own original work or teaching others how to craft their own poetry, Cordney is a true master of his craft.
We had the opportunity to learn more about him in a recent interview. Let’s learn more about his incredible gift and future endeavors in the spoken word world of art!
When did you perform your first live piece?
I performed my very first poem around the age of 7 or 8 years old at church for an Easter Sunday program.
Who are some of your poetic influences and inspirations?
I have many poetic influences and inspirations but to name a few are of the legendary likes of James Baldwin, Terry McMillan, The Last Poets, and Saul Williams. I can go on and on especially when I begin thinking of my Hip Hop influences such as Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Black Star, Black Thought, and Jay-Z. Even to this day, Hip Hop culture is such an immense influence on the way in which I write, give color to description, and also my performance delivery.
You are a proud “Girl Dad ” how has fatherhood influenced your work?
I am an extremely proud “Girl Dad” that it may be to the detriment of their future suitors because they are very spoiled but I would not have it any other way. For that matter, fatherhood has influenced my pen vastly over the past 9 years. I have not only been more deliberate in being honest emotionally but my appreciation for giving the woman a voice and respect in my pieces has become massively important. My two daughters, eight and seven, Kimora and Camílla, are aware and proudly tells anyone who will listen that I am a teacher, poet, and actor. They have been in the presence of my live performances, made guest appearances on my albums, and have even performed with me on stage. I’m proud to say that they see “Daddy” as a superhero and a superstar, especially in front of large crowds. “Daddy, how do you do poetry in front of all of those people?!”
What is one of the favorite pieces you’ve ever written and performed and why?
One of my favorite pieces that I have written and performed would have to be a local favorite entitled, “Black Cordney”, in which I delve into constructs of colorism, self-hatred, and the historic dynamic of the paper bag games in which practiced racial discrimination among Black people predominantly within the 1920s -1930s era. This piece was originally released on my first EP entitled, Blacker than Shakespeare’s Ink: the diary of the nostalgic kid (2018). I have been blessed with countless commissioned opportunities stemming from this piece and for me, it never gets old because of its true sentimental value. As a young child, I had a high self-esteem in my darker skin among a family that was predominantly lighter. I explored societal views and wanted to understand the prejudice against those with darker tones while developing my own self-image.
As a poet myself I never knew there was a National Poetry Month. Why do you feel it’s so significant and how do you celebrate it?
I learned of National Poetry Month in 8th grade Creative Writing class from my teacher, Ms. Corcoran, who fueled my love for writing poetry by introducing me to the Hip Hop and poetry connection and origins of the African Griot. For me, this month is crucially significant in that I see The Poet as the intellectual artist. This intellect speaks to spiritual, mental, and physical ability to see objects, situations, or self and eloquently bring thought to life or artistically speak to the world around them. I believe it’s such a beautiful and sometimes underappreciated ability. The month gives the art form a bit of credibility to those who cannot do what we do but still find the facility to disregard it as a second-rate talent. I celebrate the month by pushing my pen to prayfully new heights and expressions. During the month, I am usually participating in activities with my family within the arts, Poetic City, a cohort of up to 15 creatives from poetry, rap, vocalist, painters, and dancers. We engage in slams, open mics, and also conduct workshops for youth programming.
I find writing to be very therapeutic. Would you say it’s the same for yourself?
I also believe writing is therapeutic, and I often say that, although I believe everyone should seek professional therapy, I am addicted to having my therapy sessions, well dressed behind a mic and in front of a room full of strangers. Some people write poetry that only reflects people they know or the world around them, but never seem to speak to anything self-reflective or introspective at all. I feel that it’s a disservice to their pen, spirit, and their listeners/readers if after the piece is read or performed and nothing new is discovered about the artist.
What are some upcoming projects or performances you’d like to share with us? –
Pressure Cookers (July 2023), my latest spoken word album reached number 1 on iTunes charts and received a Grammy Consideration. I am proud of this project because it sounds great, yes, but deliberately focuses on Black mental health and the stigma around men and seeking therapy. By the grace of God, my publicist, and my work ethic, I have many performances coming up, but cultivating the conversation around Pressure Cookers and disparities within the mental health profession and disparities among men of color are my primary focuses within the annals of my poetry pursuits.
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