We had the good fortune of connecting with AY Young and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi AY, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business was deeply influenced by my passion for music and my unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on the world. Music has always been my medium for expressing myself and connecting with others, but I realized it could be so much more—it could be a catalyst for change.
As I grew more aware of global challenges, particularly those outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, I saw an opportunity to combine my love for music with activism. This led to the conception of initiatives like the Battery Tour and Project17. The Battery Tour, powered by renewable energy, became a symbol of sustainability and community empowerment through music. It wasn’t just about performing—it was about using my platform to raise awareness and funds for sustainable solutions.
Project17, on the other hand, was born out of a desire to amplify the voices of those advocating for positive change. Creating an album dedicated to each of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals was a way to shine a spotlight on these critical issues while collaborating with fellow artists, corporate sponsors, and nonprofit organizations to maximize our impact.
Starting my own business wasn’t just about pursuing my passion—it was about turning that passion into a force for good. It required creativity, dedication, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. But ultimately, it’s been incredibly rewarding to see how music can inspire action and bring people together in pursuit of a better, more sustainable world.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My journey in the music industry has been nothing short of extraordinary. From a young age, I was drawn to music as a form of self-expression and connection. But as I grew older, I realized that music had the power to do so much more—it could be a tool for social change and activism.
That realization inspired me to embark on a mission to use my music as a platform for positive impact. I founded initiatives like the Battery Tour, a groundbreaking concert series powered entirely by renewable energy. Through the Battery Tour, I’ve not only been able to perform my music around the world but also raise awareness and funds for sustainable solutions, particularly in communities without reliable access to electricity.
Another significant project of mine is Project17, a collaborative effort to create an album dedicated to each of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This project brings together artists, corporate sponsors, and nonprofit organizations to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our planet, from clean energy to poverty alleviation.
Beyond my music, I’ve been honored to be recognized as one of the UN Youth Leaders for Sustainable Development Goals. This designation has allowed me to amplify my advocacy efforts and engage with global leaders to drive meaningful change.
But perhaps the most rewarding aspect of my career is seeing the impact of my work firsthand. Whether it’s through the smiles of audience members at a Battery Tour concert or the tangible progress made through Project17, I’m reminded every day of the power of music to inspire action and unite communities.
I’m incredibly grateful for the support of fans like you, and I’m excited to continue this journey of using music as a force for good. Together, we can create a more sustainable and compassionate world for future generations. Thank you for being a part of this movement.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting during the Battery Tour, I’d ensure they experience the best of both music and sustainable living. Here’s a week-long itinerary:
Day 1-2:
Attend the Battery Tour concert in New York City’s Times Square, experiencing the electrifying performance powered by renewable energy.
Explore sustainable dining options in the city, such as eateries focused on locally-sourced, organic ingredients.
Day 3-4:
Visit renewable energy landmarks, like the Tesla Gigafactory or solar-powered installations, to learn about innovative solutions to the global energy crisis.
Dive into the vibrant art scene, checking out galleries and street art exhibitions that highlight environmental themes.
Day 5-6:
Take a day trip to explore nature reserves or eco-friendly attractions nearby, promoting environmental conservation and appreciation.
Engage in community events or workshops focused on sustainability and social impact, connecting with like-minded individuals passionate about creating positive change.
Day 7:
Reflect on the week’s experiences and discuss ways to incorporate sustainable practices into our daily lives, empowering each other to continue supporting initiatives like the Battery Tour long after the visit ends.
Throughout the trip, we’d prioritize supporting local businesses that align with our values of sustainability and social responsibility, creating a memorable and impactful experience for both of us.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Batterytour team – the admins, the performers, and the people behind my videos!
Website: https://www.aymusik.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aymusik/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aymusik/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aymusik
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aymusik
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5HvrV4cYYrRJRJk167KAmQ