Apl.de.ap of the Grammy Award-winning group The Black Eyed Peas has launched his very own children’s book inspired by his life back in the Philippines. Titled “What’s Ap: The Life Story of apl.de.ap,” the short story aims to encourage the young generation to never give up on their dreams. The rapper also talked about the highly anticipated BEP reunion happening this 2016.
According to Manila Times, the Filipino American rapper was inspired to share his journey as he felt that a lot of kids were facing similar challenges in their lives. Apl.de.ap grew up in a small town in Sapang Bato, Pampanga with his mother and two younger brothers. He never got the chance to meet his biological father.
Even at an early age, the rapper shared that he recognized the importance of a good education. He had been a beneficiary of the Pearl S. Buck Foundation, however, due to his poor eyesight, he had problems keeping up with his classmates. Afraid to lose his scholarship, apl.de.apl told his sponsor Joe Hudgens about his situation. Hudgens then decided to adopt him and ask him to move to the United States.
"This is a story about a kid from humble beginnings that was given an opportunity. He cherished that opportunity and now he has a good life and he wants to give back," apl.de.ap explained.
According to the Philippine Star, through his own foundation, apl.de.ap was able to help send more than 10,000 children to school in Zamboanga alone. To date, the Black Eyed Peas star has helped built over 34 classrooms, as well as sponsored 14 scholars who all graudated in the top 10 percentile of their university. Apl.de.ap proudly shared that all of them were able to land jobs, adding that he is extremely proud of all their accomplishments.
Apl.de.ap also told the publication that the Black Eyed Peas will be launching new music this 2016 as part of their 20th anniversary. He shared that it is about paying homage to all the artists who have inspired them.
"We've been recording, we have over 30 songs, but it's just a question of timing and when to release them," he shared.
