top of page
6M2A5777.JPG

BIO
AGE: 40
HOMETOWN: EAST CHICAGO, IN
CURRENT CITY: SAN DIEGO, CA

Joe McClain Jr. is a retired Navy veteran, author of 12 books, spoken word artist, and dynamic inspirational speaker. With a magnetic personality and a gift for captivating audiences, Joe has made a name for himself as a sought-after figure in the literary and entertainment industries.

 

Born and raised in East Chicago, Indiana, Joe's journey has taken him from humble beginnings to rubbing shoulders with some of the most prominent figures in professional sports and Hollywood. His literary works have been obtained by numerous figures in organizations such as the NBA, NFL, MLB, and the Hollywood entertainment industry, earning him a reputation as a talented wordsmith who can evoke powerful emotions through his craft.

 

Joe's talent doesn't stop with writing, however. As a former top 25 world-ranked poet, he has graced stages both nationally and internationally, leaving audiences mesmerized with his electrifying performances. His spoken word artistry has even led to remarkable opportunities, opening for platinum-selling R&B/Neo Soul artists Joe, Jon B, and Dwele. He has also been featured on Button Poetry and All Def Digital Poetry, two of the biggest poetry platforms in the world.

​

Currently residing in San Diego, California, Joe continues to inspire and uplift through his writing and speaking engagements. Combining his experiences in the Navy with his undeniable talent for storytelling, he brings a unique perspective to his work, leaving a lasting impact on those who have the privilege of hearing him speak.

 

Joe McClain Jr. is a shining example of how passion, resilience, and a commitment to sharing one's gift can lead to a life of purpose and fulfillment. Whether through the written word or his dynamic performances, Joe is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of others, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

IMG_5575.jpg

RESUME

Headline performer at:

Thee Ohio State University

North Dakota State University

University of Tulsa

​

-Opened for platinum Neo Soul/R&B artists Joe, Jon B. and Dwele

​

-12x author

​​

-2024 Pop Up Poetry Slam Seattle, 1st place

 

-2024 Bigfoot Regional Poetry Slam Champions (San Diego Slam Team)

​

-2024 Chicharra Poetry Slam Festival 2nd place finisher (Black Chakra, Baltimore)

​

-2024 San Diego Slam Team

​

-2024 San Diego Poetry Slam, Grand Slam Finals runner-up (Rudy Francisco)

​

-2023 Griot & Grey Owl Poetry Slam, Duke University, 4th place finisher.

​

-2023 L.A. InkSlam National Invitational runner up 

​

-2023 San Diego Poetry Slam, Grand Slam Finals runner-up (Rudy Francisco)

​

-2022 La Paloma Poetry Slam runner up (Joe Limer)

​

-2019 Individual World Poetry Slam top 25 finisher (#24).

​

-2019 La Paloma Poetry Slam Champion

​

​

​

​

​

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

​

​

​

​

 

 

​

​

​

​

​

Three great minutes on stage is the result of 100 hours of preparation. -Joe McClain Jr. 

bottom of page