KV Severallevels | Arts + Literature Laboratory | Madison Contemporary Arts Center

KV Severallevels

KV Severallevels is not only Milwaukee’s sharpest lyricist but also a poet whose words carry the weight of experience and transformation. Born in Chicago and raised in Milwaukee from the age of 8, he began writing poetry in 2007 while incarcerated, drawing early inspiration from the works of Asha Bandele and Rudy Bankston. His poetry became both a creative outlet and a means of survival, eventually leading to publication in a respected prison anthology.

Today, KV Severallevels continues to share his poetry at open mic nights across the city, bridging the worlds of spoken word and hip-hop. His upcoming poetry collection, Mandatory Release, reflects the complexities of freedom, struggle, and personal growth. Many of these poetic works also appear on his forthcoming rap album, Work Release, blending Midwest flow with East Coast and Southern influences. As a member of the Freedom Gang rap collective and frequent host of the 414 Video Spotlight Show, KV Severallevels stands as a powerful voice in both the poetry and hip-hop communities, recognized as arguably the best rapper in Milwaukee.

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Arts + Literature Laboratory is located at 111 S. Livingston Street #100, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703.

Our galleries are open Tuesday through Friday 10am-5pm and Saturday noon to 5pm, and other programs take place throughout the week. Please check the events calendar and education section for details.

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