Who is Jerrell Grimes?

Aaron “Jerrell Grimes” Hampton, known professionally as Jerrell Grimes, is a distinguished figure born in Newport, Rhode Island, a place renowned as "The Sailing Capital of the World." Currently residing in Tampa Bay, Florida, Jerrell’s journey from a first-generation high school graduate to a trailblazing author and entrepreneur embodies resilience, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Raised in a devoutly religious household alongside his two sisters, Jerrell's upbringing was steeped in the values of faith, determination, and the importance of forging one's path. His educational journey is a testament to his commitment to personal growth, marked by his studies in Elementary Education, Psychology, and Creative Writing at esteemed institutions such as Roger Williams University and Southern New Hampshire University. Further enriching his skills, Jerrell earned a diploma in Freelance Writing from Penn Foster Career School, laying the groundwork for his future literary endeavors.

Jerrell's literary career began with the publication of his first book, "True Emotions of a Man: The Boy, The Man & His God" in 2009, marking his entry into the literary world and establishing him as Newport's first black author. His subsequent works, including "Confessions of a Nice Guy" and "True Emotions of a Man: Rewind & Fast Forward," further cemented his reputation as a profound voice in poetry and storytelling. His debut memoir, "Black Boys Don’t Speak," not only garnered critical acclaim but also earned him a presidential bronze medal from the Florida Authors and Publishers Association, affirming his status as an award-winning author.

Inspired by his father's aspirations in the music industry and a legacy of entrepreneurial pursuits, Jerrell has always been driven by a legacy of creativity and self-determination. His artistic and professional influences include luminaries such as Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Nicki Minaj, and Dwayne “Lil’ Wayne” Carter, and Drake, who have shaped his approach to music and business. Patrick Haire, his recording/audio engineer, has played a pivotal role in Jerrell’s development as a musician, helping him to find his unique sound and place within the cultural tapestry.

Jerrell's life has not been without its challenges, notably his battle with osteosarcoma at the age of 10. Despite numerous surgeries and treatments, his spirit remained unbroken, and today he stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, having been in remission for over 25 years. His triumphs extend beyond his personal health, including the founding of Ten19 Media Group (an independent award-winning publishing and film production company), Level10 Recordings (an independent music and audio recording label), and Take Flight 10 Management (a management and consulting company).

Outside of his professional life, Jerrell is an avid traveler and connoisseur of new experiences, embodying a philosophy of justice, equality, and the power of voice. His belief that vocality leads to liberation underscores his commitment to using his talents to inspire and empower others. Through his work, Jerrell has not only contributed significantly to his field but also impacted the lives of many, serving as a mentor, leader, and advocate for community service.

Jerrell Grimes’ journey from the shores of Newport to the vibrant community of Tampa Bay is a narrative of overcoming adversity, celebrating creativity, and making a lasting impact. His life and work continue to inspire those who seek to make their voice heard and to contribute positively to the world around them.