Tip Harris, a.k.a. best selling rapper T.I., stars in the hit film "ATL." This film’s themes of teen peer pressure, the de-glamorizing of drugs, and its exploration of the issue of class in this society, allow the story greater range than the average coming of age film. You may think it’s about African American culture and inner city issues until you realize that these problems are universal today (and may explain why hip hop is here to stay), whether one lives in the city or suburbs. It’s a PG-13 film that speaks to the everyday issues of teenagers’ R-rated world of reality. I met with T.I. when he was in Chicago to launch the film with a Red Carpet event.

George: With your work on the soundtrack from "Hustle & Flow," what are your thoughts about a controversial song like "It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp?" not only being performed at the Oscars but winning as best original song?

T.I.: I think it’s huge for the south. It’s ("Hustle & Flow") a significantly southern movie and soundtrack. Southern movies have been empowered that much more.

George: I’m intrigued by your community activity. Kanye West got headlines for speaking about his thoughts on the government and the efforts regarding those hurt by the Katrina Hurricane, while you’ve been a little more low key¾ with a personal donation of $50,000 and leading an on-air Labor Day Pledge that raised more than a quarter- million dollars. Clearly, you are committed to social causes because of your ownership of New Finish Construction that builds and repairs homes in Atlanta to help those in need. What should people like you, that have both financial resources and a platform, do regarding social causes? Are you the new Bill Cosby of your generation?

T.I.: I just feel like if you live above average you should support those that live below average. That’s your responsibility. When I was young, cats like my uncle who lived above average would pass out dollars for ice cream or rewards for report cards…things the government won’t do. I witnessed coming up¾ now I’m that guy.

George: What thoughts would you like the moviegoers to walk away with after seeing "ATL?"

T.I.: To think! I won’t tell you what to think―just think!

George: What types of things do you see yourself involved in 10 years from now?

T.I.: Definitely films, music and fashion. Also real estate, construction, clubs, restaurants and all kinds of stuff (laughing).

George: It was 10 years between the time you started rapping (age 9) and when you signed your first record deal. Why did it take so long? Just how hard was that road and how did those experiences influence what you are doing now?

T.I.: Man, I was running the streets getting into trouble back and forth. I was not doing things consistent with being a free man.

George: What kept you from going over the line?

T.I.: I’ve been over the line. I was just blessed enough to be guided back. I learned some valuable lessons.

Without doubt, T.I. is a bright and talented young man, with continued success in his future. He’s working now on films both as an actor and a producer. "ATL" was influenced by many of his experiences and like most people he needed a helping hand from time to time to keep him on the path of a righteous life. When we see that person offering help, we can only hope that we are smart enough to recognize it and listen. T.I. did.