el guante: Emcee, spoken-word poet and activist, el guante combines politics, love songs and storytelling in a way that is compelling and original. He just released his second full-length album, "vanishing point."

Starr: Madison emcee Starr just released his debut album, "Goin' Critical" for Extortion Entertainment, a cinematic journey through politics, partying and pain. Mixing thoughtful lyrics with an aggressive delivery, Starr defies categorization.

Blane Blocker: Spoken word poet Blane Blocker has been on the Madison scene for years sharing his vivid, imaginative poetry. Also an emcee, Blocker prides himself on not only saying things in an appealing way, but also having something WORTH saying.