Jonny is 20 and has Down’s syndrome. He’s also a talented rapper. A music-making project in his home city of York has become a huge part of his life.
It’s now three years since Jonny first got involved with Tang Hall Smart CIC, a social enterprise whose activities include music-making sessions for young people with learning disabilities.
Since attending his first rock and rap workshop, Jonny’s had the chance to develop his skills as a vocalist, record and perform live with other young musicians, and make lots of new friends.
Gamelan and rap
In June 2017, Jonny performed live at Hull City Hall with a gamelan (Indonesian percussion) ensemble formed by fellow local young musicians. Here’s a studio recording of their original composition.
“I’ve always liked rapping since I was much younger,” says Jonny. “I started rapping because my dad’s dad passed away, and I wanted to express my feelings.”
Jonny attended a special secondary school in York and although he enjoyed it there, he didn’t get many opportunities to make music. After he finished school, Tang Hall Smart was the first place Jonny found where he could socialise with other young people and be creative.
Jonny recalls the first time he joined the project: “It was amazing, I was so happy with myself.” His dad Tim adds: “We couldn’t find anything else like it. He’s taken a lot of confidence from coming here.”
Rapping freestyle
Alongside music, Jonny also enjoys acting and attends a local drama club. Although he often struggles to memorise lines, it doesn’t stop him being fully involved.
He has similar difficulties remembering lyrics – but has overcome the challenge by rapping freestyle, coming up with a different verse each time he performs.
I rap about my future, my life, anything that comes out!
JONNY
Going Off On One!
Jonny’s skills on the mic and ability to rap over almost any style of music have helped make him a key member of the group that regularly rehearses together at Tang Hall Smart. Here’s a track from their rap-metal workshop!
Inspiring others
Sue, the organisation’s managing director, has known Jonny since he first joined the project.
“Jonny has a rare talent,” she says. “His natural flow, rhythm and charismatic personality make him an entertaining rapper regardless of his disability.”
Jonny has now launched a new website under his rap name Jonny the Wolf – have a listen to some of his tracks!
Jonny is just exceptional. He’s an inspiration to other people who have a learning disability.
SUE
Looking forward
“Growing up was sometimes harder, sometimes difficult for my family,” says Jonny, who still needs additional support in his day-to-day life. He has a learning plan to help with skills like handling money, for example, and also faces practical challenges like having different-sized feet.
He’s currently studying at college for a Level One qualification in Maths and English, as well as gaining practical work experience, including helping out at the community centre where the music sessions take place. “I like Tang Hall Smart,” says Jonny. “It helps me and I help them.”
Jonny’s ultimate goal is to become a professional rapper and inspire other people with his lyrics about “people with Down’s syndrome, the difficulties they have and the future they have.
“I’m doing a ‘real life’ thing. I’m so happy about it. I want to keep doing this for good.”
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Youth Music would like to thank Jonny for sharing his story. A special thank you also goes to players of the National Lottery for the funding we receive each year through Arts Council England.