Josiah Bruny is the CEO of Music Changing Lives, a Southern California-based nonprofit that provides music and art education in public schools and community centers. Before joining a Zócalo/James Irvine Foundation panel discussion on community art programs—“How Do We Keep Community in the Community Arts Scene?”—he talked in the Zócalo green room about cleaning cars, cutting hair, and dining with Biz Markie.
What advice would you give a young person with musical ambitions?
Never give up on your dreams. And learn the business that you’re looking to get into. A lot of kids want to get in the industry but don’t understand the business side.
What’s your favorite piece of musical equipment?
My favorite instrument to use is the Duet. It’s a little [recording] device that they’ve made that allows you to go mobile.
What’s your routine for getting in a creative mindset?
The odd thing I do is that I love to eat Hot Cheetos and Skittles. Then I pick up a dictionary and start flipping through.
Who is one of your heroes?
My hero is my dad. And my mom. My parents, because they really gave me the work ethic I have today. A lot of people say it takes a village to raise a kid, but for me it was just a household.
What’s the last habit you tried to kick?
Philanthropy. I’m addicted, man. Before I had my first son, I was giving until I went broke. I love seeing the effect you can have when you give.
What are three words your friends would use to describe you?
Workaholic. Dedicated. Narcissistic. Well, maybe more meticulous than narcissistic.
If you could share a meal with one rapper right now, who would it be, and what would you eat?
Biz Markie. We’d do Peruvian. I just had that and it’s awesome.
Do you have a favorite household chore?
Washing my cars. I just love when they’re clean.
Which would you rather play, sports or video games?
Sports. Football.
How much is too much to pay for a haircut?
$20. I’m trying to learn how to cut my own.