Looking into the life of Willie Ali
Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, Willie Ali never imagined that his knack for words would pave the way for his future. At just eight years old, writing lyrics became his escape—a way to stay out of trouble. “It was just something to do,” Willie recalls, reflecting on how his childhood hobby turned into a lifelong passion. What started as a distraction slowly became his lifeline, leading him into the world of entertainment.
A turning point came when Willie was enrolled in The Junior Art Center, a rigorous summer program that initially felt like a punishment. “I hated it at first,” he admits. “While my friends were outside enjoying their summer, I was stuck inside learning a skill I didn’t even care about.” But as time went on, something clicked. Creativity began to draw him in, and Willie realized how much he loved the art of storytelling—whether through writing or on screen. “The more I stayed, the more I realized how much I loved it,” he reflects.
This newfound love for creativity carried him into the world of television production. Willie started working as a production assistant on major TV shows like Win Ben Stein’s Money, Bill Cosby’s Kids Say the Darndest Things, and Chuck Woolery’s Greed. However, the job that made the most impact was his decade-long stint on Sooooul Trainnnn, the legendary show that shaped culture for generations. “Soul Train wasn’t just a TV show; it was a movement,” Willie says. “Being part of that legacy was an unforgettable experience.”
Despite his behind-the-scenes success, Willie’s true love was always writing. His dedication paid off when he wrote and produced the cult hit Run This Town, now streaming on Tubi TV and the C2TV network. With several new projects on the horizon, Willie Ali is fast becoming a name to watch in the entertainment world.
From the streets of Chicago to the heart of Hollywood, Willie’s journey is one of perseverance and passion. As his career continues to rise, there’s no telling how far he’ll go. With his latest projects generating buzz, it’s clear that Willie Ali is just getting started.
If you haven’t already picked up your copy of one of the covers featured for the month of October, please do so. Learn more about Willie Ali and the other talented people out here making an impact in the world.