The fun, inspirational and multi-talented Bilal Alaji has written his own memoir to share with the world. With it he hopes to help those struggling to find their path, give guidance and reassurance that any situation can be changed by declaring “This Ain’t My Life”. Bilal’s story keeps the page turning, find out how he manages all of life’s obstacles.
Q. If you could give your book to one celebrity, who would it be and why?
I would give my book to
Iyanla Vanzant because she deals with therapeutic methods to heal people who
have experienced trauma’s in their lives. My book This Ain’t My Life would be a great compliment to her show
“Fix My Life”. It would be amazing for me to work with her helping
people by sharing from a males perspective.
Q. Who is your biggest writing inspiration?
I have been moved by many
books and authors throughout the years but I think the book that had the
biggest impact on me in my impressionable years was the Autobiography of
Malcolm X written by Alex Haley. This book was my introduction to a fascinating
world of literary exposition. This book
melted into the fiber of my being, giving me purpose to define my destiny.
Q. If could give your book to one singer/musician, who would it be and why?
I would give it to Alicia
Keys. She has amazing vocal talent and the ability to see beyond the words.
With her musical talent she would transform the book into a musical right away
allowing me to see and understand my story in a completely different context.
Q. If your book was turned into a film/TV show, who would you tap to play the lead(s)? Why?
I’m not sure there is anyone
who could play the lead as good as I can. So, I’m going to have to nominate
myself for the lead on this role. Eminem played the lead in his movie debut
Eight Mile, centered around his life. My religious and musical background makes
me a unique character to play, a challenge I’d rather take on myself.
Q. What’s one secret about you that you’ll share with the world?
My left butt cheek is larger
than my right— just kidding. I have a great sense of humor. Those closest to
me state that I should have been a stand up comedian. My humor has been my
saving grace throughout the years. It has also acted as a buffer when tensions
are running high. I now know that the humorous side of me is a skill set that I
don’t take for granted.
Q. What is the core message you want to deliver to the world through your writing/books/stories?
I want those who read my book
to know that there is something great lying dormant inside of them. Never give
up on yourself, never give up on your dreams, and never give up on your
ambitions. It is through your darkest moments that you will find victory. Keep
believing in YOU.
Q. Give us the scoop on your book.
The book chronicles my life
as a Black Muslim who was lead down an arduous path by my father. I had
aspirations of being a recording artist that was shattered by life altering
events. I remained diligent in my passion to pursue my dreams, however, I
became a husband and parent at a young age. This would lead me through a web of
drama, betrayal, depression, and confusion. As I try to shake to web to find
some sort of normalcy, I was too deep entangled, losing myself, my dreams, and
my ambition. I found hope through my faith. I began the process of
transformation for the life that I’ve always dreamed of. I continued to remind
myself that, This Ain’t My Life. It
was because of this mantra that I was able to redefine who I was and find my
divine purpose.
Rapid Fire Questions and Answers
Q. Morning person or night owl?
A. Most definitely a night owl. I have no problem burning the midnight
oil. During late hours are when I receive the most inspiration
Q. Reading or writing?
A. Both. This is a tie. I love to read just as
much as I love writing.
Q. Kittens or puppies?
A. I’m a cat lover. Actually, I’m an animal
lover, so tie again.
Q. The beach or the mountains?
A. I love the beach. I do mountains too but
beach wins this one.
Q. Road trip or Cruise ship?
A. Cruise ship. I have done several cruises as
well as road trips. I think I enjoy being pampered and not having to work at
all.
Q. Tea or coffee?
A. I’m a tea man. Tea all the way baby!
Q. Karaoke or bowling?
A. Both. I love being active and I’m also
extremely competitive.
Q. The ability to fly or mind reading?
A. Mind reading. This will make for such a
powerful weapon— I mean skill set.
Q. Selfie or group photo?
A. Group photo. I guess I have all the time in
the world to take pics of myself.
Q. E.L. James or J.K. Rowling?
A. J.K. Rowling. She is an absolute beast with
her imagination.