Growing Up in 1980s Manchester: A Musical Journey

The 1980s in Manchester was a time of transformation and cultural vibrancy, especially in the music scene. Growing up in this dynamic city, I was always captivated by the sounds that defined the era. From the haunting melodies of Joy Division to the jangly guitars of The Smiths, Manchester’s music scene was a beacon of creativity and rebellion.

Early Days: A Dream and a Tatty Guitar

My journey into music began with a dream and a tatty old acoustic guitar that I bought for £10 (That's me in the middle of the photo with the blue top back in 1983 aged 13). Money was tight, and times were hard, but my passion for music was unwavering. That guitar, despite its worn-out strings and battered body, became my companion. I spent countless hours strumming away, trying to emulate the sounds of my musical heroes but failed, as guitars are not my thing, I used to play on mums piano from time to time.

The Struggles and the Passion

Living in Manchester during the 80s wasn’t easy. The city was grappling with economic challenges, and opportunities were scarce. Yet, the adversity only fueled my determination. I would often find myself lost in the music, composing melodies and writing lyrics that reflected the gritty reality of life in Manchester. The music was my escape, my way of expressing the emotions and experiences that defined my youth.

The Turning Point: My First Synthesizer

As the decade progressed, my persistence began to pay off. It was later in the 80s that I could finally afford my first proper piece of music gear—a synthesizer. This was a game-changer. The synthesizer opened up a whole new world of possibilities, allowing me to experiment with sounds and create music that was both innovative and reflective of the evolving music scene in Manchester.

The Madchester Scene

By the late 80s, Manchester had become the epicenter of a new musical movement known as Madchester. This scene blended indie rock with electronic dance music, creating a unique sound that resonated with the youth of the time. Bands like The Stone Roses and Happy Mondays were at the forefront of this movement, and their success inspired countless aspiring musicians, including myself.

Reflecting on the Journey

Looking back, my journey through the 1980s in Manchester was a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Despite the challenges, my love for music never waned. That tatty old guitar and my first synthesizer were more than just instruments; they were symbols of my journey, my struggles, and my dreams.

Manchester in the 1980s was more than just a city; it was a melting pot of creativity and resilience. And for me, it was the place where my musical journey began—a journey that continues to inspire me to this day.