My name is Alexandra Gibbon, I am 13 years old, and I live in Hertfordshire in England. I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember. My mom says it’s since I started talking! I asked for singing lessons for my 5th birthday, and I’ve been singing ever since.
I started school and struggled with all academics, and eventually, I was diagnosed with severe dyslexia. I used to have to miss break times and so I missed out on playing with the other children. I got left out a lot, and then the bullying started. The only time I was happy was when I was singing. I became withdrawn and didn’t want to go to school as the bullying got worse so eventually, my parents started looking for other schools. They found a performing arts school for me, the only problem was I would have to board as it was far from home!
So at ten years old I did the scariest thing ever and left my family during the week to start at my new school. I found it very hard at first but soon realized this was a fantastic place to be, somewhere I could be myself. Last year my parents moved, and now we all live together again, which is amazing.
School is going really well, and as it’s a Performing Arts school I’m getting really great vocational training, and I’m also starting to write with some great songwriters and producers outside of school.
I am really inspired to write about bullying and the effect it has on mental health and trying to send positive messages to young people to love yourself and accept yourself.
My goals for my music is that it can reach as many people as possible and have a positive impact on people’s lives. A sell out world tour would be a bonus and a dream. I would love to one day get a record deal and dream of being signed by Syco or Columbia Records, then I might get to meet Harry Styles!
The most influential people in my life are my parents. My dad has built a business from scratch and worked so hard for the whole of his life. He puts my mum, brother and me before himself and does everything he can for his family. My mum is amazing and guides me all the time and manages all my music stuff. I know she knows what’s best for me and trust her so much.
In music my inspiration is Adele, she is strong and truly talented. She writes great music and does everything on her terms. Also Harry Styles, I love his music and his attitude towards acceptance of everyone no matter what your race, religion, and beliefs.
The happiest moment of my life so far has been going to Nashville for a potential development deal. I felt so proud of myself to be offered it, and although I didn’t accept it because it wasn’t right for my age with school, it was a fantastic experience. I also met some other great writers and producers while I was there and I hope to work with them soon.
My other happiest moment was completing a charity swim for Aspire (a charity that helps people with spinal cord injuries), swimming 26 miles over a few weeks and personally raising £9000 for the charity. I know that has helped change the life of at least one person with a spinal cord injury. It was amazing being able to use my body to help someone who can’t use theirs the way I can.
My advice to other teens is to be the best person you can be, be kind and try to help others always. Don’t let bullies get you down, speak to your parents if you are going through a tough time. Rise above the haters and love yourself. Push yourself in what you love to do and never give up.
No Guts No Glory (Gibbon family motto)
Alex xxxxxx
