Musicians Making A Difference Day back for seventh year

Musicians Making A Difference (MMAD) Day returns for its seventh year on Friday, October 15.

It raises awareness for a cause that transforms young lives through music by dedicating a song to someone in need on the day with the hashtag #ThisSongIsForYou and tag @mmadaustralia.

Campaign theme ‘This Song Is For You’ was co-written by Sydney singer-songwriter Thandi Phoenix with MMAD.

Others are UK producer Joel Corry, singer-songwriter Calum Scott and Canadian Jessia.

They join Universal Music Australia, ARN, iHeartRadio, Spotify, MTV, TikTok, Twitch, Pedestrian.TV, APRA AMCOS, Brag Media, Yahoo, Network Ten, AIM, Kaimera and UnLtd.

MMAD has harnessed the transformative power of music for almost two decades to break down barriers and reach young people in need through welfare support and creative therapy.

"With over 26,400 reports of child abuse and neglect every year, 27,680 young people homeless on any given night and suicide still the leading cause of death for young people, a creative response to youth crises in Australian communities is critical," the organisation said.

Thandi Phoenix

MMAD Day coincides with Mental Health Awareness Month, and is inspired by young people who have overcome personal adversity with the support of the charity and are now in a position to give back as a voice for others.

MTV, for example, is shining a spotlight on mental health and wellbeing across the channel.

Programming blocks focus on reflection, hope and support.

Premiering last Sunday was MTV documentary Each And Every Day which explores the experiences of nine young Americans who have attempted suicide or had suicidal ideations, and share their stories in engaging conversation that goes deep into their stories of depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns.

This Friday (October 8) MTV premieres the video for ‘This Song Is For You’.

On MMAD Day, MTV Hits will showcase a music block titled #ThisSongIsForYou.

“MMAD Day showed me that I wasn’t alone,” summed up MMAD graduate April.

“It’s the best day for young people who have been struggling.

“By sharing song lyrics that helped you through some difficult times, you could help another young person feeling the same way.”