James “TheBoos” Canteen, Jr was born and raised in the inner cities of Georgetown, SC and Bronx, New York. Starting from breakdancing and rapping to DJing, He left his mark on the urban hip-hop culture scene. From there He created Boosta Sports Apparel — BOOSTA meaning Buying Our Own Styles Transcends Awareness — as a way to raise the consciousness of the African American community about economic self-empowerment while contributing to the hip-hop culture. As a serial entrepreneur, He later created the brands ShoppingWithTheBoos, Happy Huggs, and Big Boos Thee Invisible Man, (the musical artist), all of which merged into The Boos247.
Check out the interview :
Tell us a little bit about yourself. Background, education…etc
I was born and raised in the inner cities of Georgetown, SC and Bronx, New York. Starting from breakdancing and rapping to DJing, I’ve left my mark on the urban hip-hop culture scene. I’ve also attended The Center For Media Arts in Manhattan, NY where I studied Recording Engineering.
Are you an author that interacts a great deal with your readers?
Yes, That I would like to be. I have no problems engaging with my audience. Especially the youth. I would love to help point them in the right direction.
Can you tell us a bit about your book, ‘ My Young Jamaican Wife’?
It’s an urban drama that will keep you on edge. It has a very unique unexpected twist. A brand new storyline. Jamal goes to Jamaica to meet a few ladies he met online but met Marcia unexpectedly. The two fell in love and quickly got married. Jamal wishes he had met his in-laws beforehand. When everyone finds out who is who all Hell breaks loose. “poor fella”
What inspired you to write this book?
Being familiar with both Gullah and Jamaican cultures and seeing a lot of young ladies marrying older men. The scenario just entered my mind, so I then turned it into a story.
At what stage did you decide to become an author?
From writing, songs and poems lead me to take on the challenge of writing books.
What motivates you to do your best?
The Competition of others. I love to put my best into everything I do. Especially when told, I can’t do it. Hmmmm let’s see
Everybody needs a timeout. What do you do in your free time?
I’m still your guy next door. I enjoy the narm, like movies, parks, the beach, etc.
How can a new writer get started? Any tips?
Write a great book. No shortcuts. Learn the Business. Then prepare to work, it’s not easy getting your book in the hands of others. Writing is one thing, selling is another.
Do you have anything specific that you would like to say to your readers?
Stick to your goals, no matter how far off it may seem. There are your goals and you can make them come true. Also, a new goal of mine is to write children’s life stories books. So keep an eye open it’s almost completed.
Are you active on social media?
Yes Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ TheBoos247
