Though I’ve had the privilege to have been one of the main players, composers, and/or arrangers on previous records, my newest album, entitled Found, is my debut album as a bandleader and features only my original compositions. I’m extremely thankful for this opportunity to produce this record, because not too long ago, this would not have been possible. My life took a few unfortunate twists and turns in the early 2000s that resulted in nearly a four year period where I withdrew from music and performed very infrequently. It would take me close to an additional four years to recover and regain what I’d lost and then begin the process of building upon my newfound motivation.
In many ways, this record was written as an expression of thanks for the second chance that I’ve been given. As such, I wanted to find a way to give back to the world if possible. So, I decided that I would donate any of the first year sales of the record to charity, beginning on the release date of December 14th, 2018 and ending on December 14th, 2019. I’ve chosen two charitable organizations that I believe are relevant to me and the person that I’ve become as well as the person that I have been.
The first organization that I’ve chosen is Exalt Youth, and they are an organization which supports young people in New York City by providing educational and vocational opportunities that typically wouldn’t be available to what some might consider to be “at risk” youth. I’ve had the honor of living in New York City for more than 18 years, in multiple neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Queens, as well as Harlem. The young folks of this town have been my neighbors and I’ve benefitted greatly from being able to experience the culturally diverse surroundings of every place that I’ve lived. The beautiful people of New York City have broadened my world view and have shaped me into the person and musician that I am today. Therefore, through donating to an organization which seeks to help some of my fellow citizens who are in need, I’m attempting to show my gratitude for allowing me to be a part of this wonderful town.
The second organization that I’ve chosen is The Gary Sinise Foundation, and specifically, his program called the Snowball Express. This particular part of the foundation serves the children of fallen military heroes. I grew up in a Marine Corps family, with my father serving in and around several areas of conflict all the way up until I started high school. I was one of the fortunate ones in that my father always made it back home at the end of his tours. I can’t imagine what it must be like to lose a parent while they are serving their country, and I know that my life would have turned out much differently had the unthinkable happened. There are just as many pros to growing up as a military brat as there are cons, but as a kid, it isn’t the life that you signed up for. Instead, you were born into it. Donating to this organization is my way of saying thanks by offering support to the children that get left behind by those who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for the rest of us.
Throughout this first year of the record being out, I’ll be taking whatever proceeds that I receive, after fees, from any online sales and “in person” sales (CDs or download cards purchased from me, in person, at any of my shows) and donating them to these charities. You can follow me on Facebook or Instagram where I will post updates when the purchases accumulate and I am able to make donations.
Thank you for helping me give back and being a part of celebrating this momentous occasion. Click here to pick up your copy.
Sincerely,
Matt La Von