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Q-Tip’s ‘Industry Rules’

According to a press release announcing Q-Tip’s deal with Ballantine Books:

Ballantine Books will publish Industry Rules by Q-Tip, world-renowned artist, producer, DJ, and lead MC of hip-hop’s legendary A Tribe Called Quest. It was announced by Libby McGuire, publisher of Ballantine Books. Assistant Editor Porscha Burke acquired North American rights for the group from Jay Mandel at William Morris Endeavor Entertainment. 

Q-Tip was inspired to write Industry Rules as he acknowledged upcoming milestones in his personal life and professional career—most notably, 2010 marks the twentieth anniversary of A Tribe Called Quest’s first album, People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm (Jive Records, 1990). The main idea for the book grew from a verse Q-Tip penned a year later, in the group’s critically acclaimed 1991 release The Low End Theory. In the song “Check the Rhime,” he raps, “Industry rule number 4080: record company people are shady.” The book will expand on the 4080th rule and include more of Q-Tip’s thoughts on the entertainment business, fashion, love, and morality. 

Q-Tip says, “It was important to me to write a book because on the whole, I feel we could all be more literate, and as an artist, I’m always looking for ways to do something cool, different, and both light and introspective at the same time. With so many influences, like Duke Ellington’s writing, or the music played by radio DJs in the 70’s, or just what you see hanging out on Linden Blvd., there’s a lot to say, and I look forward to reaching a bunch of colorful dudes and gals with the project.” The book will include never-before-told stories about Q-Tip’s personal experiences, family life, celebrity friends, inspirations, and career.

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