Incredible to see that our local hip-hop history has grown to the point where we can have a legend like Maestro writing a book sharing his experiences in the industry which features testimonials from new-school phenoms like Drake. The connection over generations is great to see and is a natural and needed progression. Book comes out August 10th (Indigo, Chapters and Coles) or you can pre-order at Amazon.ca! Here’s all the info on the release:

Wes “Maestro” Williams Encourages Readers to “Stick To Your Vision”
Iconic Canadian Rapper/Actor Releases Motivational Book for Readers of All Ages

For Immediate Release
June 11th, 2010

(Toronto)  For young adults and people who want help achieving their goals, advice from Wes “Maestro” Williams, based on his life experiences as the “Godfather of Canadian Hip-Hop” will guide them on the right path.  An iconic legend in Canadian hip-hop, and dedicated actor, Wes draws from personal experiences to motivate and inspire the reader.  Sharing the same title as one of his hit singles, “Stick to Your Vision” demonstrates to readers of all ages how to overcome personal hurdles to make the seemingly impossible, possible.

As someone who has experienced the highs and lows that come with being a performer, Wes “Maestro” Williams has had to overcome many challenges in his life. These are also the same challenges that apply to everyone, and Wes’s practical and empowering strategies will help readers to get there. In “Stick to Your Vision”, Wes demonstrates how to define vision, how to achieve it, and what to do once it’s been achieved. He offers useful tips and advice, as well as inspirational stories and quotes, and exercises that will keep readers moving towards reaching their goals, and making dreams into a reality.

Co-written by Tamara Hendricks-Williams, and featuring testimonials from the likes of TV Host/Commentator George Stroumboulopolous and Director Little X, to artists such as Drake and Esthero, Wes’ book exemplifies how the life lessons and advice garnered from the book can apply to readers of all ages, ethnic backgrounds and experiences. As stated in the book’s forward from Public Enemy‘s legendary frontman, Chuck D: “MAESTRO has held his own as the KING of MCs in Canadian Hip-Hop History. He is the Alpha paving the road as originator for some other household northern MCS to follow…It is also key to stay true to the roots of the game as well as the Black-Caribbean culture that has figured strongly in its energy. Dignity and Respect come with that blend, something that’s usually passed over by American MC’s. The Canadian MC does not ever go backward, it’s not in their DNA.”

About the Author:
WES “MAESTRO” WILLIAMS is a hip-hop artist, inspirational speaker, and actor in movies and television. Wes is an inductee to the Scarborough Walk of Fame, a Gemini-nominated actor, recipient of the 2003 Reel World Film Festival Trailblazer Award, Harry Jerome Award, and two Juno Awards, and his albums have reached gold and platinum status. Wes’s first album, Symphony in Effect, was the first Canadian rap album to receive platinum certification and made Wes the first hip-hop artist to go platinum in Canada. More than 20 years after release, Symphony in Effect remains the best selling Canadian rap album to date. Wes has performed for former Canadian Prime Ministers Chretien and Mulroney, as well as royalty such as Queen Elizabeth II. He continues to support several charitable organizations, such as Toronto Plays For Haiti, War Child, Save the Children, Covenant House, Special Olympics, Battered Women’s Support Services, and the African AIDS Society.

As an actor, Wes has shared the big screen with Jamie Foxx, Jessica Alba, and Mark Wahlberg, and was seen in the home of millions in his television roles in Instant Star, Metropia and The Line, for which he received his first Gemini Award nomination.   This is his first book.

Stick to Your Vision, How to Get Past the Hurdles and Haters to Get Where You Want to Be,  published by McClelland & Stewart (Random House), will be available in August 2010.  Please see www.randomhouse.com for additional information.