As a youngster, he played with the Virginia Youth Symphony Orchestra, which took Griffin worldwide, including live performances in China and Greece. Griffin was born in Detroit (the birthplace of Motown) though raised in Virginia Beach, according to his website. “I felt like my parents wanted me to do football, but I really - in my heart - wanted to be a musician only,” he continued. Griffin said he made the “hard decision” to quit the football team in high school so he could pursue music, adding, “I’ve always wanted to be a musician.” RELATED: Terry Crews' Funniest Moments on AGT Will Have You Cracking Up “So, I came on to win AGT and achieve my dream of sharing healing through my music with the world.”

“I’m done holding myself back,” said Griffin. He appeared on stage with his electric cello, explaining he had good reason to audition on AGT. Watch AGT Tuesdays at 8/7c on NBC and next day on Peacock.īJ Griffin is a 34-year-old entertainer based in Virginia Beach, Virginia.