Nia Long reveals cover of memoir ‘The Sound of Purpose’ ahead of 2027 release

“The Sound of Purpose” will trace the actress’ journey from Brooklyn and South Central Los Angeles to a decades-long career in Hollywood.

Nia Long has unveiled the cover of her first memoir, “The Sound of Purpose,” which explores her upbringing, Hollywood career and search for healing. The announcement follows Long’s recent reflections on family and faith at her Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony and the lessons from her grandmother she shared with Black entrepreneurs.

In an exclusive cover reveal, People reported that Gallery Books and its 13A imprint will release the memoir on May 25, 2027. Long called it “an intimate unpacking of my life” and said she hopes her story encourages readers on their own journeys.

The book revisits Nia Long’s childhood in Brooklyn, a small Iowa town where she was one of four Black students at her school, and South Central Los Angeles. The publisher describes those years as marked by both love and abandonment.

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Raised by parents who were artists, Long saw how Black creatives struggled for representation and opportunities in America. The publisher says those experiences strengthened her determination to pursue acting and build a career in Hollywood.

The memoir also addresses racism, colorism and sexism in Hollywood. Readers can expect behind-the-scenes stories involving John Singleton, Regina King, Will Smith, Whoopi Goldberg, Larenz Tate and Colman Domingo.

Long’s career includes roles in “Boyz n the Hood,” “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” “Love Jones” and “The Best Man.” She recently portrayed Katherine Jackson in the Michael Jackson biopic “Michael.”

Long received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in September. During the ceremony, she thanked her mother and sons and reflected on growing up in Los Angeles when money and opportunities were limited.

Beyond her career, “The Sound of Purpose” explores grief, heartbreak, self-love and personal growth. The publisher describes the 256-page memoir as a story for readers seeking transformation, not solely fans of the actress.

The book is available for preorder ahead of its May 25, 2027, release.