About
George Yamazawa Jr. is a first generation Japanese-American poet/emcee from Durham, NC. Raised in a Buddhist household while learning the nature of the Bible Belt, “G” quickly understood how to embrace his differences and take pride in his culture. Heavily influenced by hip hop, G first began writing rhymes at 12 years old but never considered himself a writer until he found poetry.
In 2007, G was expelled from his high school and sent to an alternative school. During that time of uncertainty and depression, he discovered the power of spoken word and used it as a positive outlet for his creativity. Since then, he has become one of the founding members of the Sacrificial Poets, the first youth poetry organization in NC, and dedicates his time cultivating the young voices in his community. In 2010, G performed at the Sundance Film Festival, Bonnaroo Music Festival, and Rock the Era Youth Festival in front of 11,000 people. At only 20 years old, he is an Individual World Poetry Slam finalist, a National Poetry Slam finalist, and 2-time Southern Fried Champion.
