Vibe.com, September 28th, 2006
The Atlanta native has been spreading his royal wings in the arena of films and will team up with giants of the industry – Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, and director Ridley Scott for American Gangster, a crime drama based on the true story of seventies Harlem heroin kingpin Frank Lucas due out next year. And that’s just the beginning.
T.I. is also developing new music and film projects for his Grand Hustle Entertainment. He’s promoting soulful crooner Governor Washington and DJ Drama of the Gangsta Grillz series. And, along with New Line Cinema, he’s shooting For Sale, a comedic drama about a used-car dealer T.I. attributes his success to a strong belief in himself, the support he has from the people around him, and, just maybe, his Air Force Ones.
“My family is the most important thing to me.”
What is your approach to fashion and style?
My mood determines the way I go with my outfit. When I’m feeling happy, I’ll wear all white. If I’m feeling down and out, I’m dressed in black. I use the keep-it-simple-stupid principle. Being comfortable is the way to go.
Name three fashion items you cannot go without.
My diamond-encrusted links, my tiepin, and my Louis Vuitton loafers. Although, I gotta have my Air Force Ones.
How do you see yourself in the fashion world?
I’m a connoisseur of good taste and fine clothing, like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Brooks Brothers, Prada, and shoes by Salvatore Ferragamo. But I can go upscale or low-down, either way.
What is your most satisfying gift so far?
Besides my family and children, Lyor Cohen surprised me with a watch I always wanted from Ulysse Nardin. It’s valued between $68,000 and $75,000. He did it real slick by buying the watch for me while I was on my way to get it. I got to the store, and they told me the last one was sold. It was a real surprise when I found out that he had bought it for me. It was a good thing. But most of all, I’m happy for the support I have gotten from family and the people around me. They give me strength when I’m down.
How do you feel about women wearing revealing clothes?
I don’t judge a woman by the way she dresses. I know women who dress real loose but are conservative and vice versa. I let them do their thing.
What is important to you?
First, I must be in good health– and spending time with my children. My family is the most important thing to me.
What are the codes you live by?
Work hard, and be happy with the effort you’re putting out.
Who are some of your musical influences?
Musically, I’ve been influenced by old-school acts such as LL Cool J, Run DMC,
Eric B and Rakim, Geto Boys. I listen to Outkast, Goodie Mob, UGK, Jay Z, and Nas. On the R&B; side, I listen to Sade, Isleys, Marvin Gaye, Barry White, and Otis Redding.
What is your favorite movie?
Life, starring Martin Lawrence and Eddie Murphy. The comedy mixed with the real-life drama is what really made it a favorite. I like that style. That’s the kind of presence we’re trying to bring to For Sale. I’ll be playing a major role in that as well.
Have you ever been turned down for a role?
Yes. I read for the part that went to Nick Cannon in Drumline but didn’t get it. It gave me the drive to search for other roles, and when Dallas Austin was doing ATL, I tried out. It’s been going good since.
How was that ATL experience?
It was something else, and now I just gotta keep doing better. I’ll be making other movies, so I’ll keep growing. I’m about to begin shooting with Ridley Scott in a film called American Gangster with Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe.
They are masters. How do you feel going up against them?
They’re the best in the field. It will be a great opportunity for me, and I’ll be learning from the great ones. I feel blessed and will be taking my pen and note pad.
With all the success you’ve had, how do you keep your bearing?
I relax with my children and family members around me. I don’t let it go to my head.
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