By Roman Wolfe
Former Tribe Called Quest front man Q-Tip has teamed with Ballantine Books to publish Industry Rules which will contain the rapper’s thoughts on the entertainment business, fashion, love and morality.
The book’s concept will expand upon a classic Q-Tip line on A Tribe Called Quest’s classic song “Check the Rhime,” in which he states: "Industry rule #4080/Record company people are shady.”
The 4080 line became popular in Hip-Hop circles and was even the name of a popular rap magazine in the 1990’s.
"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,” Q-Tip said in a statement. “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."
In addition to the aforementioned subjects, Q-Tip will also reveal never-before-told stories about his personal and professional experiences during his 20-year-recording career.
Industry Rules will be released in conjunction with A Tribe Called Quest’s 20th anniversary of their debut album, People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm (1990).
Q-Tip is also planning to drop his unreleased album Kamaal the Abstract on Battery Records.