2020 has been an incredibly challenging year for the music industry and MMAD regrouped to shine a light on the healing power of music and the impact it makes within our community. The podcast created in lockdown features upcoming episodes with influential Australian artists Paul Dempsey, Eves Karydas, Illy, Mike Waters, and L-Fresh the Lion, The series also features honest and open conversations with more MMAD graduates (D-Minor, Paz, Lilith, Jaz and Brayden) who have successfully completed MMAD programs and speak to how music helped inspire them to face personal struggles and find their way forward.
On creating the Music Saved Me podcast, Musicians Making A Difference (MMAD) Co-Founder Dominic Brook said: “It’s been a really difficult year for so many people, and we need these open and honest conversations more than ever. We were blown away by how much each artist brought to their chat with Danny and opening up about such personal stories. It really is a special insight into these artists and how or why their art is shaped and created. We hope this podcast can inspire people out there who might be going through a tough time right now and help them realise they are not alone.”
Major podcast supporter, Jennifer Leslie, Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation Chair adds: “Our relationship with Musicians Making a Difference has positively impacted the lives of young people facing disadvantage and marginalisation for nearly a decade. We are proud to continue our support with this brilliant and deeply authentic new series and encourage people to listen and share it as a tool to reach and impact young people in need.”
“Music Saved Me uses the power of storytelling and digital channels to reach people who may feel alone in overcoming their personal struggles. The project brings together relatable role models with MMAD’s positive messages to empower young people to make a change for good in their lives”, Jennifer said
The Music Saved Me podcast follows the charity’s 2018 Rhyme & Reason podcast which shot to the #1 music podcast position in its first week itunes and was featured in ‘Best New Australian Music Podcasts’. Artists included, Dustin Tebbutt, E^ST, Bliss & Eso and Alli Simpson discussing issues on addiction, mental health and more.
In addition to the ongoing support of Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, MMAD acknowledges the support from the music industry on this important project, especially partner Sony Foundation for delivering artists including foundation Ambassador Conrad Sewell, Graace, Illy, Mitch Tambo and Mike Waters; MMAD Day co-creators Universal Music Australia for introducing Eves Karydas and Paul Dempsey and Verizon Media for opening their production studio for special recordings with inspirational MMAD graduates.
New episodes will be released each Wednesday for the next month, with the final two episodes released on Musicians Making A Difference Day (MMAD Day), Friday December 4.
Listen to Music Saved Me by Musicians Making A Difference (MMAD) now available on all podcast streaming platforms.