I Was, Am, Will Be Release Party: Book Launch and Artist Showcase

Celebrate the official release of J.R. Rice’s new collection, I Was, Am, Will Be, with an immersive night of poetry, music, and film.
About this Event

I Was, Am, Will Be Release Party

Book Launch and Artist Showcase
Featuring J.R. Rice & the Super Friends

Friday, October 2, 2026

6:30–9:00 PM

Discover Community Cafe

3207 Louise Street

Oakland, CA 94608

Suggested Donation: $10

Headliner: J. R. Rice

Hosted by Anthony “The Chef” Jefferson

Oakland-born author, educator, and spoken-word artist J.R. Rice invites you to celebrate the release of his new collection, I Was, Am, Will Be, with an unforgettable evening of poetry, music, film, theater, reflection, and community.

This is more than a traditional book reading. The audience will journey beyond the page and become part of an immersive artistic experience filled with raw storytelling, dramatic performance, live music, meaningful conversation, and creative participation.

The evening will include:

1. An all-star showcase of Bay Area poets, musicians, authors, and actors
2. A theatrical poetry performance headlined by J.R. Rice
3. The exclusive world-premiere screening of the short film Affirmations (Why Write)
4. A guided reflective-writing activity—no writing experience necessary
5. A live Q&A and community discussion facilitated by Anthony “The Chef” Jefferson
6. Prizes and giveaways for selected attendees
7. A closing book sale and signing with J.R. Rice and participating authors

Featured artists include:

• Cael Dueñas-Lara (@caelpoeta) — 2025 Oakland Youth Poet Laureate
• Stephen Sharpe (@stephensharpe) — Richmond Poet Laureate and founder of Afterword Press
• Monique “Moe Ministry” McCoy (@iammoeministry) — spoken-word artist, author, educator, and event host
• Julian Blackmon, aka Protected Poet (@protectedpoet) — award-winning slam poet, musician, author, and actor
• Bianca “BB” Brown (@bbindisthang) — (singer, songwriter, educator, vocalist, and instrumentalist

Additional special guests and surprises will be announced!

Come celebrate J.R. Rice, support Bay Area artists, experience the premiere of Affirmations (Why Write), and receive your copy of I Was, Am, Will Be on its official release day.