Interviews Next Wave

TCR Exclusive: Ali Bey Talks “Never Judge A Book” And More!

Q. Ali Bey is a savant of conscious hip-hop—his sound is unyielding, honest, and fueled by a genuine desire

By TCR Staff

January 28, 2025

TCR Exclusive: Ali Bey Talks “Never Judge A Book” And More!

Q. Ali Bey is a savant of conscious hip-hop—his sound is unyielding, honest, and fueled by a genuine desire for change. His dreamy, bouncing tracks flow like refreshing currents of empowerment, offering listeners unique spaces to process, heal, and rise above their circumstances. Having personally endured a brutal encounter with the police, Q. Ali Bey understands the profound impacts of injustice. Rather than internalize his anger and resentment, he puts his creative genius to work as a “boots on the ground” artist and activist—working tirelessly to empower marginalized communities with his nonprofit Know-Your-Rights, and other innovative projects. Inspired by his late mother Patricia, Q. Ali Bey is a steadfast positive reinforcer—shedding much-needed light on a world so often overshadowed by darkness.

After a successful collaboration with veteran rapper Knoc-turn’al on his debut album, his upcoming project Never Judge a Book by Its Cover delivers an ultra-relevant reminder: no person has the right to judge another. Appearances can be deceiving, and assumptions can harm those most vulnerable. Yet, he believes that each of us has the power to manifest our dreams and break free from the chains that bind us. Q. Ali Bey is a resonant voice for his community and all of America—proudly representing those who refuse to let prejudice stand in the way of a brighter future.

When Q. Ali Bey crafts an anthem of resilience, it becomes supercharged—his dreamy, bass-driven West-Coast hip-hop resonates deeply, offering both wisdom and solidarity to a community burdened by systems of oppression. Familiar voices bolster the track’s evocative verses, as Wu-Tang Clan-affiliated Soloman Childs and Killah Priest share their perspectives, words of encouragement, and wisdom. At the heart of the track soar the angelic, comforting vocals of The Official Krystal Klear, carrying the poignant message—when one feels utterly overwhelmed by circumstance like they are “about to drown,” one must “hold it down,” because everyone has just one life to live. In the face of darkness and tumult, Q. Ali Bey courageously illuminates a path forward, urging his community to “speak loud,” “stand tall,” and live with integrity and purpose. A rallying cry and a beacon of hope—” Never Judge a Book” spotlights the enduring strength and unity of those determined to thrive against all odds.

Q. Ali Bey’s spirit of honesty extends into his visual storytelling, opting for a down-to-earth, grounded aesthetic that veers from the hip-hop status quo. Filmed in one of LA’s most vibrant cultural hubs, Leimert Park, the video captures the essence of community, solidarity, and resistance. Against the backdrop of this historic neighborhood, Q. Ali Bey showcases the rich culture of this bustling community, using his art as a powerful medium to advocate for peace and liberation. Here, the song truly takes flight—uplifting the people and the spirit that inspired the track. Here, he and his crew stand united—embodying the collective strength that the song champions. And it’s here, that Q. Ali Bey sets the groundwork for lasting change—urging others to speak their truth with pride and purpose.

What inspired you to first start making music? Did you always know you wanted to be a musician?

Music has always been a big part of my life. My mother gave me my first keyboard when I was around 11 or 12. I played the Tuba in the Marching Band in Junior High/Middle School, and always have been a fan of music for as long as I can remember. I always knew I wanted to be around music, my only question was will music pay the bills one day?

Are there any particular musical influences that inspire your sound and style?

Growing up I listened to several Hip Hop legends, Scarface, Tupac, Immortal Technique, Biggie, Rakim, Krs-1, N.W.A., Spice1, E40, C-BO, I know I’m missing a lot of people. I literally followed HipHop growing up. I remember going to the record store buying that CD just to look at the album art and pictures that came with the music. An example: Tupac and the Outlaws had an old picture in Hawaii and it is significant for me because when I joined the Navy I ended up near the same place where they took that photo years later.

What was it like working with The Official Krystal Klear, Soloman Childs and Killah Priest on this track? How did you work together to bring this song to life?

Working with Krystal Klear, Solomon Childs and Killah Priest is a true blessing! I literally sought them out. I purchased the music from my good friend and Music Producer/Beat Maker Kendrell Porter (MadSkitz), and had good friend Music Producer/Beat Maker, Kenneth Tolliver III

aka (Komakaize) record my verse along with the chorus. Soon after my good friend Juice da Witch Docta introduced me to Solomon Childs, Krystal Klear, and DJ-J Ronin. DJ J-Ronin introduced me to Killah Priest and everything else is history.

What was it like to film in Leimert Park in Los Angeles? How did this location fit into your vision for the music video?

Leimert Park being the most culturally sound park in Los Angeles it was the only place suitable for this type of video. It completed the ambiance of the visual.

What was the most rewarding part of bringing this story to life? Did you face any unexpected challenges along the way?

The most rewarding part of this project was creating lifelong memories and meeting good people. There were a few small challenges but nothing worth mentioning. I gave myself enough time to plan accordingly.

What role does honesty and authenticity play in your music?

My music would not exist without Honesty and or Authenticity. Our society has been Truth Deficient for quite some time now so it is important to me keep a positive truthful message in my music. As far as Authenticity is concerned, I am who I am! I can only be myself, and do no other way to express myself than through my music.

You use your music as a vehicle to advocate for peace and liberation. Do you hope “Never Judge A Book” inspires change and action?

I hope all my music inspires people to make a positive change moving forward. It only takes approximately 21 days to change a habit whether positive or negative.

What’s next on your artistic horizon? What can fans look forward to?

I’m just getting started so there’s more Q Ali Bey to come that’s for sure. I have a third album in the works along with a few projects I’m the Executive Producer of so please stay tuned!