We recently had the chance to connect with Justin Griffith aka Grades Of Absolute Truth and have shared our conversation below.
Justin Griffith aka, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have you ever been glad you didn’t act fast?
A while back, I was booked as main support for a national act. Big crowd, great money – the whole thing. But the schedule got away from the organizers. Too many speakers, not enough time. Right before the headliner’s contracted start time, the coordinator told me I wouldn’t be performing. Yeah…disappointing is an understatement.
In that moment, I had to keep my emotions in check. Stay calm, stay professional. I got paid, and because I handled it right, I ended up landing another high-paying venue gig and a house show from that night. Think I would’ve gotten those opportunities if I’d snapped, raised hell, and acted a fool?
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a songwriter, recording artist, and performer who releases music under the name, Grades Of Absolute Truth. My brand is built on honesty, depth, precision, and relevance. As a genre mutt, versatility is my thing. In a world full of boxes, I am me.
At the end of the day, my purpose is simple: to make a positive impact on this world through music, education, and the content I create.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My dad, no question. His work ethic was unreal. He’d be out the door hours before we even woke up, and for a big part of my life he’d get home after we were already asleep. And he didn’t even complain about it. As I got older, I started seeing both sides of that. My family will feel the impact of his dedication long after he’s gone. But at the same time, living only to work isn’t it. I’m finally getting better at finding that balance.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering will always be a better teacher than success. You don’t learn real resilience until life knocks you down, and you don’t feel real appreciation when everything comes easy. The hard lessons stick with you. And when you push through the pain, the success that follows hits different – sweeter, deeper, and worth it.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
I believe there’s a bit of truth in every perspective. Everyone’s shaped by their own experiences, backgrounds, and battles, so no two viewpoints are built the same. The problem is, most of us think so highly of our own perspective that we treat it as the right one – the one that should carry the most weight. But when we do that, we miss the value in what other people see, feel, and know.
Humility isn’t about thinking less of yourself; it’s about recognizing that your truth isn’t the only truth. When you learn to step back and actually listen, you start realizing how much wisdom sits in angles you’ve never considered. That’s where real understanding and connection begins.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
Three things immediately come to mind – writing, riding, and watching a good series. When I can lock in on what’s right in front of me, I’m at ease. Sitting alone with a pen and pad, building a new idea I believe in – that’s one of my purest joys. Hitting a backroad on my Harley with no traffic forces everything else to disappear. It’s just you and the machine. Beautiful. And when it’s time to unwind, watching a series lets my mind rest and focus on something that doesn’t involve me at all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://GradesOfAbsoluteTruth.com
- Other: Upcoming Events – https://GradesOfAbsoluteTruth.com/events
Listen – https://GradesOfAbsoluteTruth.com/releases
Store – https://GradesOfAbsoluteTruth.com/store
Image Credits
Sean P, BG (formerly BB), JackRabbit James, Elizabeth Bolt
