Anthony “Tony” Grant is flying high with his busy career. Grant stays focused while acting and singing, keeping his fans pleased and wanting more. He has so much in store.
What motivated you to become and entertainer?
I didn’t really need motivation. I was born with it in my blood. I would always find ways as a youth to entertain family, friends and even myself. Growing up in the country forced me to be creative, which led to sports and now the performing arts. As a youth, I relied on my creativity as a motivating factor. Now, I simply rely on God and the vision he’s placed in my heart to be a blessing to people by giving them hope, no matter the situation.
How did you get started working with Tyler Perry?
Perry was doing a play called I Can Do Bad in Dallas, Texas. I was in Houston at the time and he flew me in to see the show. After that, he and Bishop TD Jakes cast me in the stage play Behind Closed Doors. I started there in 2000 and have been working with them ever since.
Tell me about your new music.
The name of my cd is Access Granted, and it’s an anthem for those who desire love and romance between a grown man and woman. My music speaks to the heart of people who love and are excited about the sensitivity of being in love.
What advice would you give someone who seeks a career in the entertainment business?
Put God first and be prepared to work hard. If you don’t have it yet, go out and get some really tough skin because your feelings are going to be hurt. Entertainment is not the career for the meek and sensitive. Focus on being a trendsetter and not a trend follower. Don’t be afraid to be true to who you are and always be humble. Study your craft and practice as much as you can and never get into a competition with other actors. Be of service to others and watch God flip it into your favor. He says, if you’re faithful over a few things he will make you ruler over many.
What does success look like to you?
Certainty, security, confidence, passion, assurance, truth, satisfaction, love!
The entertainment business is tough. What keeps you going?
The promises of God like “Your gift will make room for you and will bring you before great men.” My family and being able to provide for them. Seeing my people be Blessed by my contribution in using my gifts to entertain.
What projects do you have coming up?
I’m currently about to go on tour with JeCaryous Johnson’s stage play The Things Your Man Won’t Do starring Allen Payne from New Jack City, Leon from The Five Heartbeats, Terri J. Vaughn from The Steve Harvey Show, Essence Atkins and myself. I have a movie coming out in the very near future called The Last Punch, as well as the release of my album and of course still filming the Tyler Perry/Oprah Winfrey connection sitcom Love Thy Neighbor. Life is fantastic. God truly loves me.
