• What inspired you to write the memoir, “One Day, This Will All Make Sense”?

I thought that a lot of my story and the things that I’ve been through in the first chapter of my life were lessons in life that I wanted to share with people, to hopefully inspire them and give them motivation. And through relating to what I’ve done, with the coming-of-age story of a young man who experienced things they can enjoy, they can, at the same time, be inspired.

• How did you feel about speaking to the SLU community?

The audience was great. I loved getting to leave an imprint on some people. With my perspective and experiences, I hope I was able to spark and motivate others.

• What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing American youth today?

I think it’s definitely education, like being educated in a shape and form that they can use to better the world. You should be able to get an education and apply it to do something that will let you be great in this world. But I definitely think the biggest issue is education. That, and self-love.

• What do you see for yourself in the future?

I see happiness. I see blessings, wonderful days, marriage, producing in film and television, more films as an actor and opening up schools.

• How would you say your activism has influenced songwriting?

My song writing has definitely influenced my activism because I feel like if I’m talking about uplifting people, I’ve got to be active in doing that. I have to be present. I have to show that action. The activism has influenced my songwriting by really being that direct connection and contact with people in need. When I see that, I feel it. That’s how I used to write a lot of my songs anyway – just ride around and talk to people and absorb the city. That’s image I try to put into my songs.

• Is there anything else you would like to share about your work?

I have a new album coming out Nov. 22 called “The Dreamer, The Believer.” I also have a new television show that I’m one of the stars in on AMC called “Hell on Wheels.” It’s about the building of the Trans-Continental Railroad.