Grammy-winning artist and tech entrepreneur Will.i.am recently shared that he’s never owned a house, despite his success in music and tech investments. In an interview with People, the Black Eyed Peas member revealed,
I don’t think I’ve made it yet. Every milestone just leads to the next one. I’ve never had a house. I bought a studio and an office, but I stay in hotels. I’m waiting to buy the house that says, ‘I made it.
Speaking at the AfroTech conference in Houston, the 49-year-old opened up about his roots in South Los Angeles’ housing projects. He reflected on his childhood experiences, including waiting in line for food stamps with his mother and losing friends to violence, as the source of his ambition.
I wanted to dream differently,” he said, adding that his upbringing continues to fuel his drive for success. Despite balancing a thriving music career and investments in tech startups like Fyi.AI, he stays connected to his community, frequently visiting his old neighborhood.
Will.i.am’s commitment to giving back started in 2005, after volunteering for tsunami relief efforts. The experience inspired him to tackle the “tsunami of no opportunity” in underprivileged neighborhoods. He established robotics and college-access programs, which have since expanded to over 500 schools and helped students graduate from top universities like Stanford and Brown.
While he’s achieved remarkable success, Will.i.am still envisions a futuristic dream home that symbolizes his ultimate milestone. “When I get that house, then I’ve made it,” he said. Until then, his journey continues—one milestone at a time.
