As many of you know, Matt Brady from New Medicine left the band in December 2012 to move to Ghana, West Africa and work with the Joy 2 the World foundation which empowers women entrepreneurs in Africa through microloans. I still remember reading his announcement on Facebook:
**Hey friends, I’ve got a big life event to announce. Last night was my FINAL SHOW with New Medicine, and it was unforgettable!! I’m moving my life to Ghana, West Africa on January 10th, 2013. As many of you know, the work I’ve done in Ghana the last few years is immensely important to me and I’m ready to fully commit to making an impact there.
That being said, this was an incredibly difficult decision to make. I know chances are that most folks won’t understand completely why I’m doing this; I know it comes as a shock and some of you will be disappointed. I’ve got all the love in the world for Jake, Ryan, Dan, and the extended New Meds family– I’m thrilled for what the future holds for you. Through all the touring over the last few years, I’ve made lasting friendships all over the country and I’ll sincerely miss seeing you all.
I admit it, this is a scary transition to make. If i have any words of parting, its to always do the thing you are afraid to do. Live dangerously. All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better.
Life & Light to you all–
MB
I have loved New Medicine for the past three years and have seen them live in concert about 8 times, always having the pleasure of meeting the band and catching up with them. I remember many people were shocked or saddened to see Matt’s announcement. I on the other hand, was so happy to see him make this big move and follow his heart. His post reminded me of the famous quote by Mahatma Gandhi “Be the change you wish to see in the world”. Matt is an example of just that, wanting to help and make a difference and doing just that; taking action!
We recently had the chance to catch up with Matt and chat about his new life in Ghana and wanted to share the brief interview with you.
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Music Junkie Press: Can you tell us when you first went to Ghana and what volunteer work were you doing?
Matt Brady: My first trip to Ghana was during the summer of 2007, I went with a study abroad program through the U of Minnesota. Our group took Political Science classes at the University of Ghana in Legon during the week and we had the weekends free to explore. I fell in love with the country and knew I wanted to return someday.
Music Junkie Press: What are you going to be doing out in Ghana?
Matt Brady: I’m currently the Executive Director of Microfinance of a small non-profit called Joy2theWorld. We are a registered 501(c)3 and Financial NGO working to empower women and their families in Ghana, West Africa through Microfinance. We make small loans to women entrepreneurs that they use to grow the size of businesses and increase their profits.
Music Junkie Press: It must have been a hard decision for you and did you have a specific moment where you just made the decision to go forward?
Matt Brady: Leaving the band and moving to Ghana was one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever made. I love New Medicine, the guys in the band, the fans, playing on stage, traveling, the whole thing. But I knew I wouldn’t feel complete unless I explored this other side of my life. I’ve been coming to Ghana every year for the past 5 years and the time came to put in some serious time and call it home for awhile. In fact, it’s the longest I will have stayed in one place since I started playing music with the boys in 2008!
Music Junkie Press: “What advice would you give to your 14 year old self” what would your advice be to your 14 year old self?
Matt Brady: 14 year old self: Stop letting mom cut your hair. Until you’re ready for the Mohawks and liberty spikes, then let mom cut your hair again.
Music Junkie Press: Your fan base and myself have been so happy to see you pursue your dreams, either through the music of New Medicine or your work now back in Ghana. We will always support you and thank you for being a part of us! Do you have any parting words of advice for your fans?
Matt Brady: Be aware of the immense privilege it is to be you. To have the things you have, to be surrounded by the people you know. Really try not to get caught up in the little shit. Take a few risks, surprise yourself, most of all be good to people.
I really admire Matt and how he is taking risks and following his dreams. He reminds us all that we should take risks and live outside of your comfort zone. Too many of us have those “shoulda, coulda, woulda” regrets about things. Sometimes the fear that is holding one back from making change is fear, not of failure but of succeeding. Matt’s actions remind me of some of my favorite quotes:
“I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than regret the things I haven’t done.” – Lucille Ball
“Help others achieve their dreams and you will achieve yours.” – Les Brown
“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” -Andre Gide
If you would like to find out more about Joy 2 the World and how you can help them, visit their website at www.Joy2theworld.org. So now isn’t it time to take a few risks in your life?
~ Peace, Marisol
Joy 2 the World Organization Website
this guy really has a great head on his shoulders. i admire him too and i hope to hear more about him.
I think his love of books has led him down the right path. Just to read great books and novels brings adventure to live and to want to do more and help others. Hats off to BR80 for doing it right. I think the organization is doing it right by providing tools and loans to the women and they are doing the work to give themselves a better life.