Meet John Morris | Music Artist, Actor, Model & Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with John Morris and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi John, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I’d say the most important factors in my success are my personal relationship with Yeshua and my willingness to learn and adapt to new practices. Navigating entrepreneurship has been a challenging process full of ebbs and flows. At times, giving up and getting a regular job has certainly crossed my mind. Leaving the country and starting a brand-new life has also been a real temptation for me. However, I know that if being an entrepreneur were easy, everyone would do it. Trials build character, and these days I am more focused on becoming than on doing.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a reflection of everyday life—capturing the beauty, pain, triumphs, trials, tears, laughter, success, struggles, love, anger, reconciliation, faith, doubt, resilience, terror, failure, shame, redemption, joy, peace, restoration, loyalty, betrayal, victory, defeat, and everything in between. Through my music, I aim to remind us of what it means to be human, while also acknowledging that we have the power to choose our emotions.
Reaching where I am professionally was not easy. I’ve encountered numerous moments of failure, delay, and discouragement. Yet, I firmly believe in the principle that “no test, no testimony.” My faith and conviction that I am here for a reason—created to fulfill a purpose and solve a problem in a unique way—keep me moving forward.
One of the key lessons I’ve learned is that while your gift may get you into the room, it’s your character that keeps you there. It’s crucial to value those who genuinely believe in and support your vision, both verbally and physically. If someone no longer believes in you and withdraws their support, that’s okay. Often, the tasks you relied on them for can be accomplished more effectively by you yourself. Success without fulfillment is like a weightless anchor—appearing significant but never truly making an impact.
What I want the world to know about my story is that it’s okay to experience the full range of emotions. As the world evolves, especially with the rise of A.I., many may find themselves searching for purpose in life. The approaching era of technological singularity—when technological growth becomes uncontrollable and irreversible—will bring unforeseeable consequences for human civilization. People may adopt an “if you can’t beat them, join them” mentality, leading to a blend of human and machine. Brain-Computer Interfaces are just one example of the direction we’re heading. If one chooses to merge with machines, it’s uncertain whether the emotions they experience will truly be their own.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If a friend visited me in Atlanta and arrived early on a Sunday morning, I’d take them to either Hunger Church with Pastor Dr. Hart Ramsey or All About Jesus with Apostles Eric and Maydia Mosely in Cartersville, GA. After church, we’d head to the Falcons game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Later in the week, we’d visit KMG Studios to see where films are made. For dining, we’d check out some of Atlanta’s best spots: Poor Calvin’s, Bonez & Gristles, Holeman & Finch, The OK Cafe, Tassili’s Raw Reality, Mellow Mushroom, Fish Thyme, Delilah’s, The Marietta Local, C&S, Nick’s Food to Go, and last but not least, La Petite Marche.

For live music, we’d explore Apache XLR, The City Winery, or Kat’s Cafe. Atlanta is always brimming with amazing food and culture, and depending on when they visit, we’d also enjoy the vibrant nightlife that the city has to offer.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My journey has been blessed by many individuals who have encouraged, loved, mentored, and even corrected me when needed. I’d like to start by giving a shoutout to my brother, Dr. Kevin “Khao” Cates, founder of Bridge DA Gap (https://bridgedagap.com/). His organization uses music to enhance the social-emotional development of youth, focusing on character-building principles, life skills, and self-regulation. Bridge DA Gap combines Hip Hop music with the latest advances in technology to offer a comprehensive social-emotional development curriculum for students in grades 6 through 12, taught by Meagan Good and Khao. I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating on numerous musical projects with him, and his mentorship in business has been invaluable.

Next, I want to recognize my brother, Andre Brown, founder of the Bokeh Photo Summit (www.bokehphotosummit.com). This immersive event is designed for photographers of all skill levels, featuring hands-on shooting experiences in custom-designed bays and wedding sets, and fostering growth within a supportive community. It’s a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and thrive in a passionate photography community. Andre has been instrumental in encouraging me to pursue a serious modeling career and has consistently provided opportunities to apply the knowledge he shares.

I also want to highlight Dr. Joel Freeman, founder of The Rosetta Universe (www.rosettacrazy.com). This organization unites donors and advocates to empower generations globally through the ancient wisdom and problem-solving legacy of the iconic Rosetta Stone. He is also the co-author of Black History 365 Education (www.blackhistory365education.com), a guiding resource for equitable and inclusive ethnic studies in schools and communities. Dr. Freeman’s wisdom, combined with his dedication to keeping Christ at the center of his work, has inspired and challenged me greatly. Often, his outreach is a simple reminder to laugh and enjoy life, rather than focusing solely on work, politics, or religion. I’m deeply grateful for our friendship.

Lastly, I want to give a shoutout to Tremagne McCluskey, whose exceptional suit tailoring skills ensure I look sharp whenever I step out. The incredible suits you see me in are all crafted by him. Check out his work at ThreadsbyTre:

Lead Designer: Tre (Threads)
Instagram: @Threads_by_Tre
Facebook: ThreadsbyTre
TikTok: ThreadsbyTre
His talent truly makes a difference in how I present myself!

Instagram: @justjmorris

Twitter: @justjmorris

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjmorris

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/meezyjbaby

Other: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/j-morris/429651001

Image Credits
Andre Brown
Andre Brown Photography
www.andrebrown.com
www.bokehphotosummit.com
@andrebrownphoto

Felicia Reed
Owner | Felicia Reed Photography
www.feliciareed.com
@feliciareedphotography

Nady Delarosa
www.nadydelarosaphotograpy.com
@nadydelarosaphotography.com

Dante Washington
www.djwphoto.com
@iamdjwphoto