T.I. performs, answers questions on ‘The View’
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Monday, October 13, 2008
In one of the wildest bookings in recent memory, Atlanta rapper and actor T.I. visited the ladies of “The View” live Monday morning on ABC.
He was there to perform “Whatever You Like,” the hit single from his new No. 1 album, “Paper Trail.”
The Associated Press
‘I can’t excuse it,’ T.I. said of his arrest for trying to buy machine guns at a Midtown Publix.
But first, the rapper had to answer some pointed questions regarding that guilty plea on those pesky federal weapons charges stemming from his arrest a year ago as he tried to purchase machine guns and silencers in a Midtown Publix shopping center. The arrest occurred just hours before he was due to hit the red carpet down the street at the Atlanta Civic Center as the most nominated artist at the 2007 BET Hip-Hop Awards.
“I can’t excuse it,” T.I. said. “When you’re in my line of work, more people want to kill you than congratulate you. I have a family to protect. It sways your judgment.”
With sunglasses perched atop his head, the rapper legally named Clifford Harris Jr. said he’s learned a few things since the arrest.
“You’ve got to walk with God instead of walking with the guys. It took me a while to learn that.”
T.I. is awaiting sentencing in the case. As a convicted felon, jail time is almost a certainty.
On another stint in stir, T.I. said: “I’m concerned, but I’m not scared. I’m not thrilled about it. I look forward to getting it over with.”
