“On a New Track” with Anthony: From Incarceration to Inspiration
Anthony McDuffie Jr., 2021 On a New Track Program graduate
Anthony McDuffie Jr. graduated from our On a New Track Reentry Mentoring Program back in 2021. This past May, he came out as a guest speaker for the current cohort! He shared his experience in the program and success after graduation, such as writing his first book, "Grit Grind and Glory.” Anthony put an emphasis that the class goes well beyond learning music - it also cultivates community building, camaraderie, connections, sharing similar values, and the opportunity to create a brand around each person's unique story.
“Graduating from the On a New Track reentry program was another accomplishment of completion for me. I evolved in a short time as a mentee to mentor. I learned so many things about myself and others along the way that contributed to a flow of positivity. As a performing artist, I conquered my fears of failure and let down. Overall, it was an incredible transformative experience and I recommend it for anyone who has been through similar situations as me.”
- Anthony McDuffie Jr.
Hear more about Anthony’s experience in On a New Track here.
Anthony McDuffie Jr. sharing his story with 2023 On a New Track program participants
Journey as a Writer
Anthony’s journey as a writer began in May 2022, marked by the release of his book “Grit Grind and Glory.” After being inspired by the opportunities provided by Give a Beat, Anthony felt that he was “given the freedom to speak, express, and write,” which motivated him to write his first book.
“I decided to give myself a chance, thus Give a Beat GAVE ME A HEART BEAT.”
- Anthony McDuffie Jr.
However, this process was not without its difficulties. He had to navigate through the heartbreaking loss of multiple family members, dealing with grief while channeling his emotions into his writing. His primary motivation was to share his narrative and story in order to provide solutions and support for others facing similar challenges.
“The process was difficult because I was dealing with the death of my family members, one after another. I was also grappling with grief and trying to channel it into my story. It was crucial for me to share my narrative and story in order to provide solutions and support to others who may be going through similar experiences in prison.”
- Anthony McDuffie Jr.
Incarceration Experiences
Anthony also shed light on the harsh reality of prison life, where the incarcerated individuals were given medication without information about its content or purpose. He exposed instances of correctional officer abuse and violence that instilled fear among his peers. Through his testimony, he brought attention to the darkness within these facilities.
Strength amidst Tragedy
Losing several family members during his writing journey presented immense challenges for Anthony. To find strength and resilience, he turned to nature - particularly the ocean - which proved to be self-therapeutic. Engaging in activities like writing, editing, and finding solace in lagoons, parks, and greenery helped him heal from traumatic experiences.
Breath Work
Anthony also discovered the power of breath work as a healing technique, facilitated by “an exceptional human being” named Billy through On a New Track.
During the program, he was experiencing profound trauma in his life. This practice allowed him to breathe through his traumatic experiences, providing enlightenment and healing along the way.
Give a Beat’s Impactful Program
Graduating from Give a Beat’s On a New Track Reentry Mentoring Program was a significant milestone for Anthony. This transformative experience helped him evolve from being a mentee to becoming a mentor himself. Through this program, he gained valuable self-insight and learned about others’ experiences, fostering a flow of positivity in his life. As a performing artist, it allowed him to conquer his fears of failure and disappointment.
“On a New Track gave us an outlet, a way in which we could articulate ourselves through music, speech, emotional awareness and emotional intelligence.”
- Anthony McDuffie Jr.
Balancing Artistry: Author and Artist
As an author and artist, Anthony finds that these two creative pursuits intersect. He describes authors as using their imagination to create vivid and detailed narratives. Writing poetry for the first time while incarcerated, Anthony drew inspiration from the conditions surrounding him, using rhymes and reason to articulate his thoughts. He emphasizes the importance of intentionality through the use of vision boards, learning from mentors that what is written down becomes real.
Anthony McDuffie Jr. sharing his story with youth
Inspiring Youth: Motivation and Empowerment
Anthony’s book and motivational speeches have garnered attention nationwide, particularly among youth in the United States. His personal experiences as an at-risk youth who lacked mentorship inspired him to focus on motivating and inspiring young people today.
Through workshops and speaking sessions, Anthony has made a profound impact on the lives of many. For instance, he facilitated a class called “Jubilee project” at MacArthur's church where he shared his book with the community. One participant credited the book with changing his life by reminding him of his past lifestyle before prison, ultimately leading him away from criminality.
“Being an at-risk youth myself, coming in and out of juvenile detentions, if I had had mentors, I would have gone down a different path. Now it’s my turn to help the next generation.”
- Anthony McDuffie Jr.
Understanding Prevention: Keeping Youth Out of the System
Growing up in an underserved Los Angeles community and experiencing incarceration firsthand has given Anthony unique insights into preventative measures to keep young people out of the system. He shares knowledge gained from personal trauma - all contributing to wisdom acquired as a young person transitioning into adulthood.
Using this understanding, Anthony engages with youth by asking the right questions and empowering them to become their best selves. He believes that acknowledging who we are and inspiring others, with clear aims and targets, can serve as powerful tools for personal growth.
“Being young and experiencing trauma helped me gain insight into understanding preventative measures to keep young people out of the system. I’ve seen parental neglect, favoritism towards younger siblings, mothers facing challenges and taking it out on her children, living on the streets and in abandoned homes, and being exposed to gangs. Wisdom is gained through the journey from youth to adulthood. The young person exists in a world full of obstacles and difficulties. I’ve lived through those experiences.”
- Anthony McDuffie Jr.
Message for Aspiring Writers and Artists
Anthony’s advice to aspiring writers and artists facing challenges or setbacks is simple yet profound: “Keep creating unrestrictedly.” He urges individuals not to allow anyone to silence their expression. In these times, it is crucial for artists to be bold, courageous, and push humanity forward through their work.
Future Goals as an Artist and Author
Anthony McDuffie Jr., author of “Grit, Grind and Glory”
Looking ahead, Anthony has a variety of exciting projects in the pipeline. He plans to release a documentary titled “Grit Grind And Glory” within the next year, giving audiences a deeper understanding of the experiences of impacted individuals within the system. Additionally, an audio book version of his current book will be available in the coming month. Anthony also intends to share “My Life in Poetry,” a compilation of works written during his years of incarceration. Fans can expect merchandise such as t-shirts, beanies, and hoodies with his brand’s logo. Finally, he invites everyone to connect with him through various channels as he represents the next generation.
Anthony’s story serves as an inspiration for all those striving to overcome obstacles and create meaningful change through artistry and words. Support Anthony by purchasing his book “Grit Grind and Glory'' available at www.gritgrindandglory.com.
This will provide you with a new perspective on the impact of systemic issues on individuals’ lives while showcasing the resilience required to overcome adversity.
On a New Track was the catalyst for Anthony’s many successes and endeavors during reentry. Anthony’s journey is a powerful testament to the fact that when people are given a second chance, they can soar to new heights. Give a Beat aims to bring music and education programs to incarcerated communities for healing, transformation, and skill development. Give a Beat’s On a New Track program aims to achieve individual outcomes such as healing, transformation, empowerment, resilience, and reduced recidivism to those on the path of reentry. Through the program, participants are provided with opportunities to take their creative careers and dreams to the next level.
Learn more about our On a New Track Reentry Mentoring Program and watch our sizzle reel here!
