Dreadlock Alien, the performance poet persona of Richard Grant, is a leading voice in the UK’s spoken word scene and a passionate advocate for anti-racism, education, and creative expression. Of Anglo-Indian and Caribbean heritage, Grant brings his lived experience of race, identity, and belonging to the forefront of his work, using poetry as a tool to challenge prejudice, spark dialogue, and build understanding across communities.
Based in Birmingham, Grant served as the city’s 10th Poet Laureate, using the role to amplify unheard voices and push poetry beyond traditional boundaries. He is known for his high-energy, interactive performances that fuse hip-hop, freestyle, beatboxing, and sharp social commentary. Whether in classrooms, theatres, or festivals, Dreadlock Alien uses the power of words to dismantle stereotypes and engage audiences of all ages in conversations about justice and equality.
A seasoned educator and workshop leader, Grant works extensively with young people, encouraging them to explore issues of race, identity, and community through creative writing and performance. His approach is rooted in empowerment, helping students find their voice while deepening their awareness of systemic racism and the power of language to resist it.
In 2025, he published Ink Air, his first anthology, translating the energy of his live performances onto the page. The collection captures the urgency and insight of his stage work while reinforcing his commitment to anti-racist education and cultural activism.
As a mentor and champion of emerging talent, Dreadlock Alien continues to shape the UK’s spoken word movement, always driven by a belief in poetry’s potential to heal, disrupt, and unite. His work stands as a vibrant call to action, urging listeners and readers alike to challenge injustice and imagine better futures through rhythm, rhyme, and resistance.
When asked about what anti-racism means, Richard says:
“Anti-racism means a lifetime of work. It’s a movement, a reflex, a bounce back to the theory of racism.”
