Mar 6, 2013
Winkk Novels
Winkk Novels: Misleading, Tour Secrets2 and Tour Secrets
All novels available on Kindle, Nook and Paperback.
MISLEADING SEQUEL COMING 2013
Feb 27, 2013
Winkk Choreographs "Imitation of Life"
The award winning choreographer Winkk creates another masterpiece with Theater 47, choreographing the new hit Broadway play "Imitation of Life" at the Harold Washington Cultural Center (Chicago). Directed by John Ruffin / Theater 47. www.winkkatme.com www.theater47.com
Oct 22, 2012
Winkk Wins the Katherine Dunham Award for Best Choreography
Winkk was awarded the 2012 ”Katherine Dunham Award” for Best Choreography from the Black Theater Alliance for her work on the broadway stage play “The Color Purple” presented by John Ruffin Entertainment/Theater 47.
Oct 2, 2012
Oct 1, 2012
Tour Secrets Series - Dancers love it!
Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=tour+secrets+2+by+winkk
Barnesandnoble.com
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tour-secrets-winkk/1100383002?ean=9780983775911
Jun 20, 2012
Black Authors Network Radio will interview Winkk on June 22nd at 8:30PM
Join Winkk for the
Black Authors Network Radio Show Details
The Call-in Number for this show is: (646) 200-0402
Chat-room: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network
Black Authors Network Radio Show Details
Friday, June 22, 2012 @ 8:30PM - Host Ella
D. Curry
The Call-in Number for this show is: (646) 200-0402
If you have read Winkk's novel Misleading, Tour Secrets or Tour Secrets 2, call in on Friday, June 22, 2012 at 8:30PM or visit the chat room at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/black-author-network to discuss the book with her.
Jun 14, 2012
Winkk will be at the Midwest Book Festival in Milwaukee, WI on Saturday, June 16, 2012
Join Winkk at the 4th Annual Midwest Book Festival in Milwaukee on Saturday, June 16th from 1pm- 4pm at Celebration, 4740 W. Bradley Road, Milwaukee, WI. Winkk will be signing her novels – Misleading, Tour Secrets and Tour Secrets 2
Jun 7, 2012
Winkk Choreographing The Color Purple Stage Play
Joey Pinkney interviews Winkk
5 Minutes, 5 Questions With Winkk,
Author of Misleading
JoeyPinkney.com Exclusive Interview 5 Minutes, 5 Questions With…Winkk, author of Misleading
(Ailam Publishing LLC)
(Ailam Publishing LLC)
Misleading by Winkk draws you into the glittery, but gritty realm of Jarvis Denttin, a self-absorbed club owner who gets on a first-name basis with betrayal while expanding his successful business in Chicago. Devastated by the shocking murder of his best friend, the womanizing Jarvis Denttin starts distrusting the people around him, and they prove that they are more conniving then he could imagine. With money dominating his life, he is unaware of the scheme being orchestrated to bring him down. He finds himself fending off power moves from a circle of business associates, including a vengeful lover and a longtime, once-trusted protégé. Oblivious of his acquaintance motives, he gets put in a deadly situation.
Joey Pinkney: Where did you get the inspiration to write Misleading?
Winkk: I was inspired to write Misleading because sometimes you never really know the intentions of the individuals around you. Misleading is a story about karma. What goes around always comes back around.
JP: What sets Misleading apart from other books in the same genre?
Winkk: Because I love to keep readers guessing what is going to happen next and shocking them throughout the storyline, I think my style of writing sets my novels apart from others. I have lived an interesting life and have witnessed some things that most people might feel is unbelievabl. In my world, it’s reality, and it makes an interesting novel.
JP: As an author, what are the keys to your success that led to Misleading getting out to the public?
Winkk: My keys to success are always promoting, marketing, learning and willing to eat, sleep and breathe this industry. Never giving up on my dreams and always having faith keeps me pushing forward.
JP: As an author, what is your writing process? How long did it take you to start and finish Misleading?
Winkk: My writing process is to visually create the story and book cover in my mind. Once I can see the story and cover, I’m ready to start typing. It usually takes a couple of months to finish the book. Then the work begins with the editing process.
JP: What’s next for Winkk?
Winkk: I’m currently working on my fourth novel. Since I like to stay busy, I hope everyone keeps in contact with me at http://www.winkkatme.com.
I would like to thank Joey Pinkney for providing a platform for authors to display their work. I would also like to thank the readers who have supported me with my first novels Tour Secrets 1 & 2, and who continues to support me with my latest novel Misleading. I thank everyone for supporting me.
Apr 4, 2012
Mar 6, 2012
Winkk Nominated for "Author of the Year"
Winkk is nominated for “Author of the Year” for the 4th Annual 2012 AAMBC Literary Awards. Voting starts now and ends April 5th!!
Vote for Winkk
(Click on Link below)
Feb 11, 2012
"MISLEADING" by Winkk Trailer
Watch "MISLEADING" by Winkk
Video Trailer
"MISLEADING" by Winkk - Available on Nook, Kindle and Paperback. (Barnes and Noble, Amazon and bookstores). Misleading by Winkk draws you into the glittery, but gritty realm of Jarvis Denttin a self-absorbed club owner who gets on a first-name basis with betrayal while expanding his successful business in Chicago. Devastated by the shocking murder of his best friend, the womanizing Jarvis Denttin, starts distrusting the people around him, and they prove that they are more conniving then he could imagine. With money dominating his life, he is unaware of the scheme being orchestrated to bring him down. He finds himself fending off power moves from a circle of business associates, including a vengeful lover and a longtime, once-trusted protégé. Oblivious of his acquaintance motives, puts him in a deadly situation. www.winkkatme.com
Click on Bookcover to Purchase Novel
Jan 19, 2012
Chapter Two of My Life
I truly want others to experience what I’ve experience. To do what you love, is never work. My purpose is to help others succeed in their dreams. The good, the bad and the ugly, I still enjoyed my time traveling on the road as a dancer/choreographer. I’m a stronger person, a different person, a wiser person a more mature person and a happy person. My experience is priceless.
A dancer will always live inside me, choreographing is something I will always do. I’m moved by music and creativity. I’ll always work with others to help them experience their dreams and share my knowledge to help them succeed. Who knows, you just might see me on the stage again.
I’ve started a new chapter in my life, and as a published author, with three books and now working on my fourth, I’m still creating. From books, to video book trailers, to plays and movies, God continues to bless me and my dreams. I’m always moving forward with a positive attitude, positive energy and positive people around me. Lights, camera, action – welcome to chapter two of my life.
Motivate, inspire and support.
Winkk
Dec 9, 2011
Winkk is Choreographing Dreamgirls Chicago
Winkk is one of the Choreographers for Dreamgirls Chicago coming March 2012 at the Harold Washington Cultural Center (Chicago, IL)by John Ruffin Entertainment.
Dreamgirls Chicago Tickets go on SALE Wednesday, December 14, 2011 via Ticketmaster. Tickets are $20-$40. The $20 tickets are on a limited supply while they last (Special Promo Discount Code Needed) . Special promo discount code will be available. COME OUT AND SUPPORT THIS AMAZING MUSICAL BROADWAY PLAY. Come see the talent in Chicago.
Dec 4, 2011
Misleading by Winkk Nominated for "Book of the Year"
AAMBC has Nominated Misleading by Winkk for “Book of the Year”
Please VOTE at http://dld.bz/a3CkT
Misleading by Winkk draws you into the glittery, but gritty realm of Jarvis Denttin a self-absorbed club owner who gets on a first-name basis with betrayal while expanding his successful business in Chicago. Devastated by the shocking murder of his best friend, the womanizing Jarvis Denttin, starts distrusting the people around him, and they prove that they are more conniving then he could imagine. With money dominating his life, he is unaware of the scheme being orchestrated to bring him down. He finds himself fending off power moves from a circle of business associates, including a vengeful lover and a longtime, once-trusted protégé. Oblivious of his acquaintance motives, puts him in a deadly situation. Misleading by Winkk is available on Amazon, Kindle and Nook. Oct 26, 2011
Cream City Classica interviews Winkk
Winkk interviews with Cream City Classica Blog Talk Radio
Winkk talks about how she started writing novels, how she transitioned from dancing to becoming an author and how her journey has been in the literary industry. Check out this interview and learn more about Winkk as she speaks to her Milwaukee fans.
Click link below to listen to the interview http://www.blogtalkradio.com/creamcityclassica/2011/10/27/winkk-flirts-with-milwaukee-by-misleading-classic
Oct 15, 2011
Winkk interviews with Author Speak Radio Show 10-16-11
Copy and Paste link into your browser to listen and join the conversation.
Oct 12, 2011
APOOO INTERVIEWS WINKK
On the ‘Net with Author Winkk
By APOOO • Oct 11th, 2011 • Category: Author of the Week •
Email This Post• 
Print This Post
Welcome to APOOO,Winkk! In 140 words or less, tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a wife, mother, entrepreneur and the author of the novels Misleading, Tour Secrets and Tour Secrets 2. I find writing to be exciting and very therapeutic. I write because it’s my passion and I want to entertain readers with words. Being a Pisces brings out the passionate and sensitive side of me. I’m a very creative person and my mind is always working 24 hours a day. I relax by skating. We call it JB skating in Chicago. Oh, we get down on the skates. LOL There are many different sides to me and I like to bake, laugh and have fun, but the things people know about me is that I’m very humble, helpful and love supporting and motivating people. Doing what I enjoy is priceless. I live to dream and dream to live.
In 140 words or less, tell us why Misleading would make a great addition to our personal library. Misleading is an intoxicating story that keeps the readers interested and would make a great addition to your personal library because it deals with real life issues that are relatable. Revenge, deceit, greed and karma are the ingredients for “Misleading” storyline. The cover will grab your attention, and then the video book trailer will take you over the edge. Never judge a person by their outer exterior, and be careful of the people you keep around you, are the motto for the book.
How did you come up with the premise for Misleading?
I have met some devious, dirty people and some were undetected. People that smile in your face and stab you in the back; gave me the idea to write Misleading. Hearing so many people having the same issues, I couldn’t resist the urge to write this story and give some insight on the background of these types of people and why they do the things they do. There’s a reason for everything.
What are some of the main themes portrayed in Misleading?
Some of the main themes are retribution, gluttony and karma. What goes around always comes back around. Not being aware of the people surrounding you can sometimes put you in a bad situation. Just because the package is beautiful on the outside, doesn’t mean it’s beautiful on the inside, which some of the characters in Misleading prove.
What makes Misleading different from other books in the marketplace?
I love to write realistic stories with tons of twists and turns, and give readers a shock. I feel my books will always produce these elements, therefore making Misleading and my other novels unique. Misleading proves that the people who are the closes to you are the usually the ones you can’t trust which keeps the story engaging.
What genre is Misleading and who’s the target audience?
The genre is fiction and is for an adult audience looking for juicy storylines with lots of drama. I always create characters that readers love or hate, which makes great book club discussions.
What’s the best advice that someone has given you about the publishing industry?
Writing the story is the easy part, promoting and marketing your book is where the hard work begins. Get ready to work!
What other books have you published and which book has been most favorably received by readers?
I’ve just re-released Tour Secrets and Tour Secrets 2 through my company Ailam Publishing. Since Tour Secrets is a series, both books have received great reviews. The Tour Secrets series is about two girls trying to make it in the music industry as dancers. They give you a chance to see through dancers eyes on what really happens while traveling the road with celebrities. Tour Secrets is not a tell-all but gives the readers an accurate behind the scenes look inside the music industry. The readers loved all the twists and turns and the juicy secrets. One of the main characters reveals that “she” is really a “he” and disguises himself as a female dancer in the music industry. This huge secret is revealed in the very beginning of the book and sets the pace for more secrets to be exposed.
What can readers expect from you in the future?
I will continue writing novels and producing the video book trailers for them. I definitely look forward to turning my novels into movies. I have tons of things going on, so I would like the readers to stay connected with me at www.winkkatme.com.
Is there anything else you would like to share with APOOO readers?
I want to say thank you to APOOO and Yasmin for giving authors the platform to discuss and show their work. I would also like to thank the readers for supporting me and to continue to follow me at www.winkkatme.com, twitter.com/winkkatme, facebook.com/winkkatme2 and youtube.com/winkktv. Always continue to support, motivate and inspire others.
Winkk, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to hang out with APOOO and we wish you many blessings with your literary endeavors.
Oct 5, 2011
AAMBC Fall Virtual Book Tour with Winkk
Misleading By Winkk
Sexy, wealthy and handsome is what best describes Jarvis Denttin, the owner of the exclusive popular Denttin nightclubs. His posh lifestyle has women flockingis love to him regularly, and they feed his strong appetite for sex. Having his choice of any woman, has created a selfish, deceiving, controlling man. Women are attracted to his alluring demeanor, until they are invited into his life and introduce to his devious side. Expanding his company, Jarvis Denttin is excited to open a new nightclub in Chicago. He is devastated when his close friend is killed and his businesses become in jeopardy, that he is now reconsidering his move to the Windy City. Just as attractive and charming as Jarvis, his friend and employee Antonio Flink, is being well trained to become a duplicate of him, but Antonio proves that he is more conniving then Jarvis could imagine.
Candace Mourton, the personal assistant to Jarvis Denttin is a smart opportunist and knows that he is capable of providing the lifestyle she deserves, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to keep the money flowing. She enjoys her professional and sexual relationship with him, until she breaks her own rule and falls in love. Jarvis takes care of her financially, and she caters to him daily, but realizes that isn’t enough to keep him interested in her.
With money dominating Jarvis’s successful life, he is unaware of the scheme being orchestrated to bring him down and he gets caught up in a web of deception. Knowing all the wrong he has done to people, he’s ready for a fresh start, but karma gets to him first. Oblivious of his acquaintance motives, puts him in a deadly situation. Will his life crumble before he finds out that the people around him have been misleading him the entire time?
Once you open one of Winkk’s novels, you won’t be able to stop until you’ve navigated every twist, turn and tragedy in the lives of her relatable and fascinating characters. Winkk’s deft storytelling and experience as a former model, actress and professional dancer for artists, including R. Kelly, Avant, and Ronald Isley made “Tour Secrets” and “Tour Secrets 2,” a rousing success.The two novels–which follow the lives and torrid love affairs of dancers and best friends, Raven and Music–flew off virtual shelves when they were published in 2009 and 2010, netting acclaim from outlets including Rolling Out, Power 92.3 FM, Parle magazine and Raw TV. She is a “Breakout Author of the Year” nominee for the 2011 African American Literary Awards, an honor also bestowed upon fellow nominees and celebrity writers Iyanla Vanzant, Tavis Smiley and CNN anchor Don Lemon.
Winkk follows that credo in her own life. That is why, despite dancing for some of the biggest names in R&B and modeling for Ebony magazine among others, she opted not to go the tell-all route. Instead, Winkk focuses on fictionalized stories based on her experience and imagination, broaching topics from “down low” men to transsexual entertainers. Winkk also is building her brand beyond writing novels. In 2011, she founded Ailam Publishing. Though she is currently publishing her own projects, she wants to assist other authors in finding their voice. “When I first started writing, I wanted to tell the story of the tour experience from the dancer’s side…that’s a side that never got out,” Winkk said of the books and innovative video teasers she produced on her own. “Misleading” too will get the visual treatment, as part of Winkk’s holistic literary vision. “Now, I want to tell as many stories as I can as many ways as I can in print and eventually on the small and big screen.”
Get to Know Winkk:
What inspired you to write the novels Tour Secrets and Tour Secrets 2?
I’m a former dancer/choreographer and have worked for artist including R. Kelly, Avant and Ronald Isley. Traveling on the road as a dancer inspired me to write the Tour Secrets series so the readers could get a glimpse of what dancers experienced. I felt it would be interesting to write some outrageous and sometimes unbelievable, but realistic things that dancers deal with. Tour Secrets is not a tell all, but will give you a heart-stopping, jaw-dropping inside look into the music industry. The novels have been re-released under Ailam Publishing, and are available in paperback an Ebooks.
What character did you enjoy writing about the most in the series Tour Secrets?
Raven and Que were the characters I enjoyed creating and writing about the most. Raven revealed a big secret in the book and her sassy, humorous personality was exciting to write. Que is scandalous and ruthless, and creating his character was fun.
Was it easy making the transition from a dancer to an author?
The literary industry is very similar to the entertainment business, so the transition was very easy. Since I’ve been writing for many years and used to write while traveling, I felt comfortable making the change.
Tell us about your new novel Misleading?
My new novel Misleading is about a nightclub owner who is focused on money and being successful. He realizes that he can’t control the world with money and finds out that the people closes to him are more interested in bringing him down then helping him succeed. Revenge, deceit, sex, drama and scandal are all tied up in this novel. The novel will be available on September 30, 2011 and you can pre-order it now on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. It will be available in paperback an Ebooks.
What part of the writing process do you enjoy the most?
The part of the writing process I enjoy is creating the story and seeing all the elements come together. I usually create the cover in my mind first and everything else falls into place. I love creating so writing a novel is like choreographing a dance routine to me. I enjoy the process from the beginning to the end.
Why did you decide to self-publish and what are your plans for your new publishing company?
I started Ailam Publishing to publish my novels and to keep the creative control over my projects. I will continue to publish my novels and would also like to publish other authors in the future.
What can we expect next from Winkk?
I will keep writing novels and producing video book trailer. I will turn my novels into movies and continue mentoring and sponsoring local artist. I’ve got a few things up my sleeves, so be on the lookout.
You can catch me at www.winkkatme.com or info@winkkatme.com. Also
facebook.com/winkkatme2, Twitter.com/winkkatme.com, Myspace.com/winkkatme and Youtube.com/winkktv.
Oct 3, 2011
Video Trailer - MISLEADING by Winkk
WATCH THE VIDEO BOOK TRAILER
FOR THE NEW NOVEL
MISLEADING BY WINKK
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON, BARNES & NOBLE, KINDLE AND NOOK
Sep 23, 2011
Misleading by Winkk - Available Sept. 30th
MISLEADING BY WINKK
AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 30, 2011
Also available on Nook and Kindle
|
Sep 6, 2011
Behind the Scenes with Winkk
Photographer: Reginald Payton
Make-up Artist: Jessica Burnett
Hairstylist: Vantiana
Stylist: Blake Martin
Aug 30, 2011
Jul 27, 2011
WINKK IS NOMINATED FOR BREAKOUT AUTHOR OF THE YEAR
TOUR SECRETS BY WINKK IS NOMINATED FOR THE
2011 AFRICAN AMERICAN LITERARY AWARDS FOR
BREAKOUT AUTHOR OF THE YEAR
I'm so happy and honored to be nominated for the "Breakout Author of the Year" for the 2011 African American Literary Awards. Good luck to all the nominees.
Jul 11, 2011
New Novel Misleading by Winkk
The New Novel
Misleading by Winkk
Available September 2011
Pre-order your copy today on Amazon.com
Sexy, wealthy and handsome is what best describes Jarvis Denttin, the owner of the exclusive popular Denttin nightclubs. His posh lifestyle has women flocking to him regularly, and they feed his strong appetite for sex. Having his choice of any woman, has created a selfish, deceiving, controlling man. Women are attracted to his alluring demeanor, until they are invited into his life and introduce to his devious side.
Expanding his company, Jarvis Denttin is excited to open a new nightclub in Chicago. He is devastated when his close friend is killed and his businesses become in jeopardy, that he is now reconsidering his move to the Windy City. Just as attractive and charming as Jarvis, his friend and employee Antonio Flink, is being well trained to become a duplicate of him, but Antonio proves that he is more conniving then Jarvis could imagine.
Candace Mourton, the personal assistant to Jarvis Denttin is a smart opportunist and knows that he is capable of providing the lifestyle she deserves, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to keep the money flowing. She enjoys her professional and sexual relationship with him, until she breaks her own rule and falls in love. Jarvis takes care of her financially, and she caters to him daily, but realizes that isn’t enough to keep him interested in her.
With money dominating Jarvis’s successful life, he is unaware of the scheme being orchestrated to bring him down and he gets caught up in a web of deception. Knowing all the wrong he has done to people, he’s ready for a fresh start, but karma gets to him first. Oblivious of his acquaintance motives, puts him in a deadly situation. Will his life crumble before he finds out that the people around him have been misleading him the entire time?
Jul 10, 2011
PARLE MAGAZINE INTERVIEWS WINKK
PARLE MAGAZINE
| |
| Winkk - From Dancer to Author, She Has Stories To Tell Written by A.D. Winkk has already travelled the world as a dancer/choreographer working with many big name musicians such as R. Kelly, Avant and etc. but now she hopes to showcase her writing abilities with release of her books Tour Secrets & Tour Secrets 2. Winkk was able to take time away from her busy schedule to sit down with me to talk about her days as a dancer/choreographer, her up and coming publishing company, her love of writing and her local charity work back in her hometown of Chicago. Parlé: Can you tell us about your days as a choreographer/dancer and how you transitioned into wanting to become an author? Winkk: I started off model then got into to dancing because that was more my passion at the time. There are a lot of performers in my family so dancing just came naturally for me. When I was dancing, I worked with many big names like Avant, R. Kelly, Ronald Isley and many others. I got to travel the world and live a dream of mine. Also when I was touring, I got a lot of down time on the tour bus to write but I didn’t really do anything with it until after I got married and had a child. That’s when the dancing stopped and I needed a new creative outlet but I was always interested in writing. It’s just for the earlier part of my life dancing came first but it was from dancing that I was able to find my inspiration in writing. Parlé: Your books, Tour Secrets & Tour Secrets 2, can you tell the readers a little bit about them? Winkk: Both books follow the characters of two friends as they try to make it into the music industry as dancers but along the way, they face so many challenges that threaten to tear their friendship apart from discrimination to abuse and pretty much everything in-between. I will say that book was inspired by my life as a dancer but it’s NOT a tell-all book even though a lot of what’s in here holds true to what I’ve seen and experienced as a dancer it’s still a work of fiction. Parlé: Without giving anything away, one of the characters in your book holds a very big secret. This secret is very similar to that of a young woman in real life who was also a dancer, is there any connection or is it a coincidence? Winkk: I know who you’re talking about and my book was out way before that person came into the public eye. I don’t know them personally but on the flip side when people read my book they didn’t believe that it could happen until that person came out. It’s not related at all to her but it definitely help prove my point about it happening. Parlé: After life as a dancer, did you gradually ease into writing or did you jump right into it? Winkk: Its like I said before, I was always interested in writing, dancing just came first. When I was writing for fun on the tour bus I didn’t really think much of it. I was somewhat shy, I didn’t let anyone read it and if anyone asked to see it, I would hurry up and put it away. It wasn’t until after my life change, I needed something new so I went back to what I was writing on the tour bus and decided to go with that. I let someone read it and that was pretty much it. Parlé: It’s funny, you chose to become a writer because many dancers usually become singers. Was that your goal of becoming a writer to break away from that stereotype of a dancer becoming a singer? Winkk: I can’t sing. If I could I probably would be in the studio right now. But yeah, you’re right many dancers do transition themselves in front of the camera. I knew that wasn’t going to be a task for me, I wanted to take it a step further with my work. I also feel like being a singer, there’s only so much I can do creatively because I’ll have to answer to someone else. I prefer behind the scenes work anyways, it allows me to creative something out of nothing. Parlé: How’d you get your book out there? Did you use any of your connections from when you were a dancer? Winkk: I didn’t use my connections as a dancer because the people I knew as a dancer knew nothing about the literary world and because I wasn’t doing a tell-all which made it harder for me to get it out there. No offense to people who do tell-all books but that wasn’t for me. I decided to self-publish it myself because I wanted to have control of my book and you can only do so much with a company behind you and telling you what to do. I started my own publishing company, Ailam Publishing, and my third book, Misleading will be out in September will be released under my publishing company. Parlé: With your publishing company, have you signed any other people? Winkk: I hope to in the future but right now I’m just getting started. I would love to sign new young talent but I don’t wanna hold up anyone’s career because I’m just learning myself. Hopefully down the line, maybe in a year, I’ll be able to do that. Parlé: Where can readers purchase your books? Winkk: They can purchase it on Amazon, Barnes & Nobles and because I’m just getting started with my publishing company my books won’t be available in all book stores right now. Readers can pre-order Misleading now on Amazon. They can go to my websitewww.winkkatme.com and order the books. My books are in print and eBook. Parlé: Can you tell us about your charity work? Winkk: Right now in Chicago, I work with a lot of local talent, and kids. I wanted to give something back to my community because I was so fortunate to make something of myself and I wanted to show others that it can happen to them too. I wanted to prepare young kids about the business and how to go about obtaining their dreams because many people will tell you to follow your dreams but they won’t give you any options about how to reach them. When I was coming up as a dancer, no one wanted to help me, it’s a shame that world is so competitive. I couldn’t understand how someone helping someone else would take away from what they wanted to do. I also stress to them about education first, you can still sing, model, dance and live your dream but go to school and get an education first. You don’t have to be that starving artist. Parlé: Are you connected to any social sites where readers and fans can get updates and learn more about you? Winkk: Yes, everything is pretty much Winkkatme. I try to keep it easy so people can remember it. My main site is www.winkkatme.com. You can email me at Winkk@Winkkatme.com, I very good at emailing people back whenever I can. Facebook.com/winkkatme2,twitter.com/winkkatme,Winkkatme.blogspot.com and YouTube.com/WinkkTV. Parlé: Do you have any words of advice to the readers and fans? Winkk: Live your dream but also remember to have something else to fall back on.  Winkk has already travelled the world as a dancer/choreographer working with many big name musicians such as R. Kelly, Avant among others, but now she hopes to showcase her writing abilities with release of her books Tour Secrets & Tour Secrets 2. Winkk was able to take time away from her busy schedule to sit down with me to talk about her days as a dancer/choreographer, her publishing company, her love of writing and her local charity work back in her hometown of Chicago. Parlé: Can you tell us about your days as a choreographer/dancer and how you transitioned into wanting to become an author? Winkk: I started off modeling then got into to dancing because that was more my passion at the time. There are a lot of performers in my family so dancing just came naturally for me. When I was dancing, I worked with many big names like Avant, R. Kelly, Ronald Isley and many others. I got to travel the world and live a dream of mine. Also when I was touring, I got a lot of down time on the tour bus to write but I didn’t really do anything with it until after I got married and had a child. That’s when the dancing stopped and I needed a new creative outlet but I was always interested in writing. It’s just for the earlier part of my life dancing came first but it was from dancing that I was able to find my inspiration in writing. Parlé: Your books, Tour Secrets & Tour Secrets 2, can you tell the readers a little bit about them? Winkk: Both books follow the characters of two friends as they try to make it into the music industry as dancers but along the way, they face so many challenges that threaten to tear their friendship apart from discrimination to abuse and pretty much everything in-between. I will say that book was inspired by my life as a dancer but it’s NOT a tell-all book even though a lot of what’s in here holds true to what I’ve seen and experienced as a dancer it’s still a work of fiction. Parlé: Without giving anything away, one of the characters in your book holds a very big secret. This secret is very similar to that of a young woman in real life who was also a dancer, is there any connection or is it a coincidence? Winkk: I know who you’re talking about and my book was out way before that person came into the public eye. I don’t know them personally but on the flip side when people read my book they didn’t believe that it could happen until that person came out. It’s not related at all to her but it definitely help prove my point about it happening. Parlé: After life as a dancer, did you gradually ease into writing or did you jump right into it? Winkk: Its like I said before, I was always interested in writing, dancing just came first. When I was writing for fun on the tour bus I didn’t really think much of it. I was somewhat shy, I didn’t let anyone read it and if anyone asked to see it, I would hurry up and put it away. It wasn’t until after my life change, I needed something new so I went back to what I was writing on the tour bus and decided to go with that. I let someone read it and that was pretty much it. Parlé: It’s funny, you chose to become a writer because many dancers usually become singers. Was that your goal of becoming a writer to break away from that stereotype of a dancer becoming a singer? Winkk: I can’t sing. If I could I probably would be in the studio right now. But yeah, you’re right many dancers do transition themselves in front of the camera. I knew that wasn’t going to be a task for me, I wanted to take it a step further with my work. I also feel like being a singer, there’s only so much I can do creatively because I’ll have to answer to someone else. I prefer behind the scenes work anyways, it allows me to creative something out of nothing. Parlé: How’d you get your book out there? Did you use any of your connections from when you were a dancer? Winkk: I didn’t use my connections as a dancer because the people I knew as a dancer knew nothing about the literary world and because I wasn’t doing a tell-all which made it harder for me to get it out there. No offense to people who do tell-all books but that wasn’t for me. I decided to self-publish it myself because I wanted to have control of my book and you can only do so much with a company behind you and telling you what to do. I started my own publishing company, Ailam Publishing, and my third book, Misleading will be out in September will be released under my publishing company. Parlé: With your publishing company, have you signed any other people? Winkk: I hope to in the future but right now I’m just getting started. I would love to sign new young talent but I don’t wanna hold up anyone’s career because I’m just learning myself. Hopefully down the line, maybe in a year, I’ll be able to do that. Parlé: Where can readers purchase your books? Winkk: They can purchase it on Amazon, Barnes & Nobles and because I’m just getting started with my publishing company my books won’t be available in all book stores right now. Readers can pre-order Misleading now on Amazon. They can go to my websitewww.winkkatme.com and order the books. My books are in print and eBook. Parlé: Can you tell us about your charity work? Winkk: Right now in Chicago, I work with a lot of local talent, and kids. I wanted to give something back to my community because I was so fortunate to make something of myself and I wanted to show others that it can happen to them too. I wanted to prepare young kids about the business and how to go about obtaining their dreams because many people will tell you to follow your dreams but they won’t give you any options about how to reach them. When I was coming up as a dancer, no one wanted to help me, it’s a shame that world is so competitive. I couldn’t understand how someone helping someone else would take away from what they wanted to do. I also stress to them about education first, you can still sing, model, dance and live your dream but go to school and get an education first. You don’t have to be that starving artist. Parlé: Are you connected to any social sites where readers and fans can get updates and learn more about you? Winkk: Yes, everything is pretty much Winkkatme. I try to keep it easy so people can remember it. My main site is www.winkkatme.com. You can email me at Winkk@Winkkatme.com, I very good at emailing people back whenever I can. Facebook.com/winkkatme2, twitter.com/winkkatme, Winkkatme.blogspot.com and YouTube.com/WinkkTV. Parlé: Do you have any words of advice to the readers and fans? Winkk: Live your dream but also remember to have something else to fall back on |
Jun 6, 2011
Tyler Perry said UNTIE THE ROPE - Thanks for the inspiration!
Hey there Winkk, you good?
So, I just finished filming a really good movie called GOOD DEEDS. It’s me like you’ve never seen me before. It comes out in February, brace yourself. There were a lot of long days on this shoot, so I wanted to take a break. I decided to do some traveling and since I still have 20 more pounds to lose before I start my next movie, ALEX CROSS, I thought I would go to the Grand Canyon and do some hiking, climbing and so on. At one point in the climbing, I was over a steep drop and was tied to a safety rope, while a buddy’s safety rope was tied to me. It was my responsibility to help him up, since I was bigger and weighed more. I told him, “I’ll hold on to you to help you up but if you start to pull me over with you, I’m going to untie this rope.” We had a good laugh about it, but I was serious…
I started thinking about that moment a few days ago. How many times are we tied to a person, people or things that are pulling us down and we won’t untie the rope? For whatever reason, be it family, friends, society, or just the feeling of being obligated, trapped or that if you don’t, no one else will. I have watched so many people go over a cliff with a person that they are trying to help up, it’s sad. YOU MUST UNTIE THE ROPE!!!
This is your life and you are wasting it being tied to someone who is destroying his or her opportunities and yours. If the person that you are trying to help does not know that they are worth being saved, how do you expect them to put any value on you saving them? You’re not worth it to them. They can’t get it! SO YOU NEED TO! Listen to me, untie the rope and don’t lose yourself trying to hold on to someone who can’t survive on your level. You hear me? Maybe they have gone as high as they can go. Just because you can survive on that level doesn’t mean that everyone else can. Stop trying to help them, UNTIE THE ROPE! I know you may feel this is cruel, but what is more cruel is dying a death that’s not your own. Letting your destiny go to hell because someone else pulled you there. Are you kidding me? That isn’t God!
Here is what I have learned over the almost 20 years that I have been in this business. Let me tell you, I have seen and worked with some of the most talented people you can imagine and I used to wonder why they never got any higher than they are. You know, the kind of people who always seem to be at the door, but never can go in. It used to blow my mind until I got a revelation from God.
For many years I was the same way, I would get close and things would fall apart. I couldn’t get any traction, not in my career, not in my personal life and not in the pursuit of happiness. I just couldn’t move forward. Through much prayer and self-discovery, I found out that I used to be, notice I said “USED TO BE,” a self-saboteur. I would find a way to subconsciously destroy every good thing that was in my life and I didn’t even know I was doing it. Most self-sabotaging people don’t know that they are doing it. I don’t think there is anyone sadder than a person who blames everyone else, but themselves for their situation. The very revelation that I was causing my own problems was one of the greatest blessings God could have allowed me to see. Once I realized the behavior, I was able to change it. That is why my life is in such a great place right now. I realized that my very thoughts were keeping me from being successful at everything. “So, as a man thinketh, so is he.”
Many times a lot of us sabotage subconsciously because of what mamma or daddy said, traumatic childhoods or any number of things that happened growing up that made us feel that we shouldn’t have or that we didn’t deserve it. I’m here to tell you all, that misinformation was wrong. You do deserve it! You are worthy of it! For me, knowing that Jesus died and rose again makes me know we are all worthy.
Why am I saying this? I’m just tired of people being upset with people who have realized their dreams. The only difference in someone who is living their dream and someone who can’t get it to come to pass is they don’t feel they deserve it. They don’t feel they are worthy of it. So many of us have dreams, dreams that the world is waiting for, talents that will help heal and change nations, but we keep destroying our own successes. I know for a fact that if I had not figured this out, you wouldn’t be reading this email right now. Nor would I be a happy soul.
The world is waiting for your gift. Give it to yourself and you will give it to them, but first you have to UNTIE THE ROPE.
Tyler Perry
Feb 10, 2011
Urban Reviews Best Reviews Books of 2010
http://www.urbanreviewsonline.com/2011/02/best-reviewed-books-of-2010.html
"Tour Secrets 2" has been listed on Urban Reviews for one of the "Best Reviewed Books of 2010" receiving "Honorable Mention".
"Tour Secrets 2" has been listed on Urban Reviews for one of the "Best Reviewed Books of 2010" receiving "Honorable Mention".
Jan 1, 2011
Dec 13, 2010
Dec 11, 2010
READERS ARE LOVING THE NOVELS TOUR SECRETS 1 & 2 BY WINKK
"Tour Secrets kept my undivided attention from beginning to end. The book ended with a few cliffhangers, and it has me eagerly waiting to read the sequel. Tour Secrets is a phenomenal debut by Winkk."
APOOO Bookclub
Winkk has a promising future. Her stories are engaging and relatable.”
Essence Best Selling Author Curtis Bunn
"The portrayal of the tour and celebrity lifestyle is a must read for those who are oblivious to the discrimination, favoritism, and jealousy. Tour Secrets is definitely a novel that will raise more than a few eyebrows." Urban Reviews
“Tour Secrets 2 is another successful novel by Winkk. Winkk takes you on a journey in the entertainment business that will leave you thinking twice about the so-called glitz and glamour. I was impressed with the way Winkk gave so many different twists and turns and kept me wanting more. “ Urban Reviews
"Tour Secrets 2 is even more entertaining than the first book. I was emotionally exhausted when I finished reading because I could visualize the words coming to life. I highly recommend Tour Secrets 2 by Winkk." APOOO BOOKCLUB
This took me by surprise, November 25, 2010
By Robert L. Hughes "Rob Hewz" (usa) –
Man........................... This book took me by surprise! You will not believe the twists and turns. I can't wait to start the 2nd book. You will not be dissappointed with this one. Do yourself a favor and check it out. If you are a music fan you'll love this book! The book illustrates something that I truly believe in, and that is not letting yourself be used by others for the sake of a DREAM or MONEY!
Secrets dancers keep, August 16, 2010
By Toya C. (Atlanta, GA) -
This book started out revealing secrets, which I think is true in the music industry. It was a page turner and I couldn't put it down because I was too busy calling my friends to tell them what I was reading was good. The author captured my attention and held on to enough to make me anxious to read the sequel
THIS BOOK WAS GREAT!!!!, July 28, 2010
By M.J. "love to read" (Houston, TX)
This book started off with secrets that even shocked me and ended with a BANG. It made me laugh, cry, cringe, get upset and then look for more drama. All the jealous, secrets and backstabbing made the story interesting. There were a lot of things happening that kept me turning the pages to keep reading. Even if you don't dance and you're not interested in the entertainment industry, this will still be a good book for you. Job well done to the author Winkk on her first novel. Great book and I have to read the sequel.
I know the dancers secrets, July 26, 2010
By T. Stalf (LA)
This book was great and kept my attention the entire time. I never thought about what dancers go through and this book really revealed the secrets. It was a very interesting read and I really can't wait to find out what happens in part 2. Well done for the authors first novel. It's full of suspense and keeps you wanting to know more. This is a must read.
A Must Read!, August 16, 2010
By K. M.
Tour Secrets 2 - OMG!!!!!! Can sum up this book because it was an attention grabber and keeper. This sequel continued the story and continued to keep you interested. All the secrets and drama that kept happening makes a very interesting story. I was cracking up laughing, in tears and sad reading this book. This is one of the books where I don't know how to tell you about it without revealing all the secrets and craziness. This is a must read and you won't be disappointed.
EXCELLENT BOOK, August 16, 2010
By T. f
After reading the first novel, I didn't know what to expect from the sequel Tour Secrets 2, but I wanted to know what was going to happen. This book was GRREEEAAATTT! I couldn't figure out what was going to happen next and the character Raven is funny and I hated the character Que. This book was a great sequel and continued to keep my attention. I was wondering was the sequel going to sizzle out because most books do, but this book was on FIRE from the beginning to the end. EXCELLENT NOVELS and I recommend it to anyone.
OMG!! THIS BOOK IS OFF THE CHAIN, August 12, 2010
By M.J.
Tour Secrets 2 is a page turner until the very end. This book kept me up all night reading and trying to see what was going to happen next. I'm hooked on author Winkk work and I'm ready to read her next book - she has a fan for life.
“Tour Secrets was off the chain. . I loved it! It was an excellent storyline. I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen. So kudos to you for a book well written. I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen next.” K. Jones
“Tour Secrets 1 & 2 made me go through every emotion. I laughed, I cried, I was scared, then I laughed all over again. It kept me wondering the whole time. When I thought I knew what was coming next, I was so wrong. Excellent books, so worth the read.” E. Mitchell
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