We were lucky to catch up with AY Young recently and have shared our conversation below.

AY, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is undoubtedly the Battery Tour and its extension, Project17. The backstory behind these initiatives sheds light on the circumstances and context that make them deeply significant to me.

The journey began with a realization of the immense global energy disparity. Witnessing communities lacking access to reliable electricity struck a chord within me. This observation fueled my passion to leverage my talents in music and entrepreneurship for a greater cause.

The Battery Tour emerged as a grassroots movement, powered by renewable energy, aiming to bring not just music but also awareness and tangible change to underserved communities. Performing over 800 concerts worldwide, I saw firsthand the impact music coupled with renewable energy could have in uplifting communities and inspiring sustainable living.

However, it wasn’t just about the performances. It was about the connections made, the stories heard, and the lives touched along the way. Each concert became a platform to spread awareness about renewable energy and spark conversations about global sustainability.

Project17 was a natural evolution of this vision. Inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, it aimed to address 17 critical areas for global development through music, partnerships, and action. The collaboration with 17 organizations, sponsors, and musicians was not just about creating an album; it was about catalyzing change on a monumental scale.

The significance of these projects lies in their potential to transform lives and communities. They represent a fusion of art, activism, and entrepreneurship aimed at building a better world. The partnerships forged, the impact generated, and the lives touched along the way are what make these projects truly meaningful to me. They epitomize the power of collective action and the potential of individuals to make a difference, one song, one concert, and one community at a time.

AY, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am AY Young, a singer, songwriter, activist, and entrepreneur dedicated to using my platform to drive positive change in the world. My journey into this industry and business has been one driven by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to make a meaningful impact.

From a young age, I was drawn to music and its ability to transcend boundaries and connect people. However, it wasn’t until I witnessed firsthand the disparities in access to electricity around the world that I realized the potential for music to drive social and environmental change.

This realization led to the inception of the Battery Tour, a groundbreaking concert series powered entirely by renewable energy. Through this initiative, I’ve performed over 800 shows globally, using music as a catalyst for raising awareness about renewable energy and supporting communities without access to electricity.

In addition to the Battery Tour, I founded Project17, an ambitious endeavor that aims to produce 17 songs, each representing one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This project brings together musicians, sponsors, and organizations to drive action and impact across a range of critical global issues.

As an artist, my music blends elements of hip-hop, pop, and activism, with lyrics that resonate with themes of sustainability, social justice, and empowerment. I aim to inspire listeners to not only enjoy the music but also to reflect on the world around them and consider their role in creating positive change.

What sets me apart from others in the industry is my unwavering commitment to using music as a force for good. Whether through my performances, collaborations, or advocacy work, I strive to amplify important messages and drive tangible outcomes.

I am most proud of the community that has rallied around my work, from fellow artists and activists to corporate partners and fans. Together, we’ve been able to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and communities around the world, demonstrating the power of collective action and collaboration.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that my work is not just about entertainment—it’s about using music as a tool for social change. Whether you’re attending a concert, listening to an album, or engaging with our initiatives, you’re not just supporting an artist; you’re joining a movement for a better, more sustainable world.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Absolutely, my creative journey is deeply rooted in a mission to drive positive change in the world. At the core of everything I do is a commitment to leveraging music and entrepreneurship as vehicles for social and environmental impact.

One of the primary goals driving my creative journey is to raise awareness about the global energy crisis and promote sustainable solutions. Through initiatives like the Battery Tour, I aim to demonstrate the potential of renewable energy to power not just concerts but entire communities, particularly those without reliable access to electricity.

Another key mission is to inspire and empower individuals to take action on pressing global issues. Whether it’s through my music, collaborations, or advocacy work, I strive to spark conversations, drive awareness, and mobilize people to make a difference in their own communities and beyond.

Additionally, I’m deeply passionate about supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and using my platform to advance these critical global objectives. Projects like Project17 are a manifestation of this commitment, as they aim to address each of the 17 SDGs through music, partnerships, and action.

Overall, my creative journey is driven by a desire to leave a positive impact on the world—to use my talents and platforms to effect change, inspire others, and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and just future for all.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Supporting artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem is essential for fostering innovation, cultural expression, and societal well-being. Here are several ways society can best support these individuals and the broader creative community:

Investment in Arts Education: Ensuring access to quality arts education from a young age is crucial for nurturing creativity and providing aspiring artists with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive. This includes support for arts programs in schools, community centers, and other educational institutions.

Fair Compensation: Recognizing and compensating artists and creatives for their work is essential for sustaining a vibrant creative ecosystem. This includes fair wages, royalties, and other forms of compensation that reflect the value of their contributions.

Access to Resources: Providing access to resources such as funding, grants, studio space, equipment, and mentorship programs can help artists and creatives develop their craft and pursue their creative endeavors.

Cultural Diversity and Inclusion: Celebrating and promoting cultural diversity within the arts is vital for fostering creativity, innovation, and representation. Supporting initiatives that amplify underrepresented voices and perspectives can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable creative ecosystem.

Collaboration and Networking: Facilitating opportunities for collaboration, networking, and knowledge-sharing among artists, creatives, and other stakeholders can help foster a supportive community and drive collective impact.

Public Funding and Policies: Advocating for public funding and policies that support the arts and creative industries can provide essential infrastructure and resources for artists and creatives to thrive. This includes support for arts organizations, cultural institutions, and public art projects.

Promotion and Exposure: Providing platforms for artists and creatives to showcase their work and reach wider audiences is essential for visibility and career development. This includes exhibitions, performances, festivals, online platforms, and other avenues for promotion and exposure.

Respect for Intellectual Property Rights: Respecting and protecting the intellectual property rights of artists and creatives is crucial for ensuring that they can benefit from their creative output and continue to produce new work.

By taking these actions, society can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem, ultimately enriching communities and contributing to cultural and economic vitality.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aymusik.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aymusik/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aymusik
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aymusik/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/aymusik
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5HvrV4cYYrRJRJk167KAmQ