What Does BookT Mean?

After being introduced to my music for the first time many people want to know where my stage name came from. Some theories about the name are that it came from the WWE wrestler, BookerT, Booker T. Washington or Booker T. and the MG’s. In fact, the name 'BookT' stems from the influence of society, family, books and media on me, Thomas Earl Jones Jr. The word, “Book” is a metaphor for hidden knowledge and intelligence. It reflects my view that knowledge before self prepares you for your own purpose and destiny. It also acts as an educational disclaimer that knowledge is within the T; which stands for everything Thomas encompasses that begins with that letter, for instance, Thomas truth, Thomas’ tone, or Thomas’ talent.

I came up with the name in high school, however, since 6^th grade I have been writing poetry, spitting rhymes, entertaining and enlightening people I come in contact with. When I was in school, I was well known on the open mic and talent show scene. Like many rising artists I also passed out the mixtapes and sample cd’s to create a buzz for myself early on. Nowadays I use smarter more precise means of promoting my projects. Social media is a huge part of how I continue to advance the appeal of the ‘BookT’ brand name.

As much as anyone else considering a career in music or entertainment, I want to be successful. On the other hand I realize this generation of young black men continue to face many obstacles. Not to mention many of them still are raised in single parent homes. I want to lead this generation into a positive social enlightenment through my artistry. Basically, I want to use my music and my entertainment as a platform to perform a larger greater work for the social enlightenment of society. I try to listen and provoke thought into people by showing them other routes to take to get their mind out the box. As a teenager I often felt alone, misguided, bitter, hopeless, and aggressive. Instead of channeling that energy negatively, like many others in my community, I chose to remain positive and express myself creatively. In the end, the more you know yourself, the faster you find your way.