Meet Ja’Quoi Griffin | Artist + Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ja’Quoi Griffin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ja’Quoi, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk is often scary, for me at least, because of the unknown. Ideally, I like to be well informed of what I’m getting myself into before taking a “risk”. I’m aware that part of taking a risk is not knowing the full details of what’s to come afterwards. Several years ago, any type of risk would scare me. After taking several risks – all of which have taught me a lot about life – have changed my life for the better. Now, when taking a risk I weigh the options and submit my requests to God for direction. That makes the difference. Taking risks with Him as my guide hasn’t been as scary.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a singer, songwriter, and author. I am a creative. I started as an early age singing in churches and talent shows. Music roots run in my family. I am proud that I learned my strengths as well as my purpose for singing. That has helped me to define my “it” factor and to be consistent with what I have to offer. Insecurity, comparison, and feeling inadequate in many environments almost robbed me of pursuing music. I am grateful for people who encouraged, challenged, and equipped me with wisdom to navigate through such feelings and to become more confident in my gift. I have learned that everyone has a uniqueness to them that cannot be duplicated by anyone else. I have also learned there is room for us all to be great at what we do while supporting each other.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Food! We are definitely going to eat at one of the many local restaurants. There are many places to name.

I love (cooked) sushi. Ra Sushi is a favorite restaurant of mine. I have found that they have a variety of menu items, including a wide range of sushi. Anyone I have gone to Ra Sushi with – even those who typically do not care for sushi – have enjoyed their menu. Blue Sushi Sake Grill (Fort Worth, TX) and Lava 10 (Grapevine, TX) are other great sushi places to take visitors.

My first time going to the gun range was while living in Texas. This activity has been a great stress reliever and bonding experience each time I have gone. Downtown Dallas is also a great place to take visitors. The Reunion Tower and the John F. Kennedy museums have been two of my favorite places to take visitors.

There’s never a wrong time for a trip to a local arcade center where there are arcade games, laser tag, go-karts, and other fun filled activities.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In addition to Christ, my amazing community that I get to do life with. I am a better person because of their unconditional love, support, and correction.

Some of my most challenging times in life have shown me that I do not have to do life alone, although sometimes I naturally try. The amazing people that I am honored to know have been instrumental in me surviving many challenges. The better part about them is their genuine hearts and concern for my well-being. I truly am blessed to know them.

Last, but not least, my parents and grandparents. There’s not enough space to express my gratitude. I cherish memories with those lost all the more now than I did in earlier years. I am blessed to have my father and maternal grandparents still living. Their wisdom and guidance have never failed me. I am thankful.

Website: JAQUOIGRIFFIN.COM

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