THE MUSIC THAT RAISED US Q & A
The Music That Raised Us
Every street has a soundtrack. Every life has a rhythm.
Music shapes us. It tells the story of who we are, where we come from, and the people we’ve become.
I’ve stepped away from social media — no Instagram, no Facebook, no endless scrolling.
I needed space to focus on writing, my degree, and real stories from real people.
The best way to reach me, or take part in this project, is right here on my website.
Slower? Yes. Honest? Always. That’s the point.
What This Project Is About
“The Music That Raised Us” is about:
Growing up
The songs that shaped us
The memories those tracks carry
I’m asking friends, family, and anyone who wants to share:
“What it was like growing up.
Which music stuck with you.
How it shaped the person you are today.”
This isn’t about fame, trends, or scenes.
It’s about real voices, working-class stories, and grassroots music culture.
How to Take Part
1. Answer the questions below in your own words.
2. Send your answers via the contact page or email.
Don’t worry about grammar — just be yourself.
I’ll lightly edit for clarity, but your voice stays authentic.
3. Send one photo that matters most — childhood snap, gig, outside the record shop, or somewhere that reminds you of your music memories.
“Childhood music memory” or “Local music scene photo.”
4. By submitting, you give permission to publish your story.
Anything you want private? Just say so. Respect is guaranteed.
Interview Questions
1 - Where did you grow up, and what kind of place was it back then?
2-What’s one memory that sums up your street, estate, or neighbourhood?
3- Who or what first got you into music?
4 -What songs or artists take you straight back to your childhood or teenage years?
5- Was there a local music scene — pubs, record shops, mates with decks, sound systems?
6- What was your first gig or the first record you ever bought?
7-Did you ever try making music yourself? If yes, what happened? If no, why not?
8-How did music shape the way you saw yourself or the world around you?
9-How has your area changed since then? What’s been lost and what’s been gained?
10- If your life had a soundtrack, what would the closing track be?
Pick Your Memory
Pick your favourite memory.
Pick that one song that defines you.
Send it in with your one photo, and let’s share your story.
Your voice. Your streets. Your music. It matters.
Why Your Story Matters
These stories capture:
Working-class voices
Grassroots music culture
The real soundtrack of everyday life
“They remind us who we are, where we’ve come from, and how music keeps us connected, even when life tries to pull us apart.”
By sharing your experiences, you help preserve authentic memories of growing up, music culture, and neighbourhood life in the UK.
Working-class voices in music
Growing up in UK estates
Music memories and childhood
Grassroots music culture UK
Real stories from local communities
How music shapes identity
Thanks for being part of this. Your story deserves to be heard.
Tommy Kennedy IV
www.tommykennedyiv.com