New Novel “Platinum” Sheds Light on Hip-Hop Industry

MN. What surprised you most about the urban media industry?

ASK: How normal they [celebrities] are. When you step into the room, even with all their videos, entourage and perceptions you have, it all slips away when you see them. They’re not as fabulous and they’re usually shorter than you’d think– not intimidating at all.

MN. Did you choose this specific industry or did it choose you (versus mainstream publications)?

ASK: You know, my first gig was at Billboard Magazine. So that was my natural progression. I learned about different genres, artists and the overall music industry there. But I have freelanced for Seventeen and other similar magazines. When it comes to writing for mainstream there was a time when I was at The Source, got an offer from a very known big mainstream magazine and turned it down. I felt that I was at the right place and the right time and I could do more at The Source.

MN: You can’t put a cap on success, but what we would the pinnacle of your career?

ASK: I know it sounds cliché, but being able to meet Oprah would be amazing. Writing a book she loves and sitting down on her show to talk about it would be great. Then I could drop the mic and leave the stage.

MN: What’s the biggest difference between the life of a music writer and the life of music industry person and is it possible to separate work from personal and have a successful career?

ASK: It’s something difficult. But for me it’s easy. I have a husband and kids and responsibilities day-to-day. I’m a homebody. It’s really difficult for me to be on the scene, I’m just not into it. I do think people who hang out and party with celebs, have a leg up. But I’m willing to sacrifice that and I’m OK with that– just being me.

Aliya S. king’s book comes out today!! For more information, click here. She will be at Barnes and Noble on July 14th at 7pm for a “Platinum” signing.