CASE STUDY : ZED

Building Confidence and Creative Voice Through Lyric Writing

Zed began attending We Are NOISE sessions in 2021, right from the very first workshops. From day one, he showed a deep passion for rap and a natural drive to tell his story through lyrics. His first track explored themes of family life and upbringing, instantly revealing his ability to connect personal experiences with creative expression and honest storytelling.

BACKGROUND

Over the following months, Darwen-based rapper Zed continued to attend We Are NOISE sessions, taking every opportunity to refine his craft. His growing focus on lyric structure, rhythm, and storytelling showed clear progress — not only in his musical ability but also in his English and contextual writing skills, both core elements of the We Are NOISE educational approach.

Through this process, Zed learned to:

  • Use figurative language and metaphor to add depth and meaning to his lyrics.

  • Develop narrative sequencing, transforming real-life experiences into structured verses.

  • Apply editing and redrafting techniques to sharpen clarity and emotional impact.

  • Collaborate with peers, offering and receiving constructive feedback to strengthen his work.

Zed’s dedication and creativity ultimately earned him an AQA accreditation in Lyric Writing, marking a strong step toward higher-level qualifications and a growing career in music.

PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT

As Zed developed through the We Are NOISE programme, he not only grew as an artist but also matured as a young person. His journey reflected a powerful shift — from building confidence to developing genuine self-belief and a strong respect for others. His dedication and positive attitude helped him form lasting peer relationships and meaningful musical collaborations. These experiences extended his learning far beyond the sessions themselves, helping him build real-world teamwork, communication, and leadership skills that continue to shape both his music and his personal growth.

BEYOND THE STUDIO

Zed, a young UK Hip-Hop artist from Darwen, is a standout success story of the We Are NOISE project and a true reflection of everything it represents. His enthusiasm, dedication, and persistence have led to a series of remarkable achievements:

  • Created and released an original album in collaboration with We Are NOISE, showcasing his growth as both a lyricist and performer.

  • Performed live at the Blackburn Youth Zone Patrons Event in 2023, where he was one of only three young artists chosen to represent the project.

  • Produced multiple music videos and released his debut music on major streaming platforms including Spotify and iTunes, earning recognition and respect from his peers and local community.

Zed’s track “Reminisce” stands out as a powerful reflection of his journey — a deeply personal story told through honest lyricism and emotional storytelling. His achievements demonstrate not only his musical talent but also his confidence, creativity, and ability to communicate real-life experiences through art — qualities that make him an inspiring example of the transformative impact of We Are NOISE.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Zed - Reminiscing

UK hip hop just got a serious shake-up — courtesy of ZED, one of the most exciting young voices from the We Are Noise collective. Drawing from real-life experiences and a natural gift for storytelling, ZED delivers music that’s both authentic and original.

With sharp wordplay and an effortless command of UK slang, “Reminisce” rides a slow, moody beat that lets his lyrical depth shine. The result? A modern masterpiece — proof that ZED isn’t following the sound of UK hip hop… he’s redefining it.

IMPACT AND REFLECTION

Zed’s growth highlights the powerful role that music and lyricism can play in education and personal development. Since joining We Are NOISE, he’s built a wide range of skills — from expressive communication and critical awareness to focus, discipline, and technical creativity in music production.

Through his dedication, Zed has learned to channel his thoughts and experiences into words and sound, developing both his confidence and his ability to connect with others. His journey is a clear reminder of how creative practice can help young people learn, express, and believe in themselves beyond the classroom.

Conclusion

Zed’s journey perfectly reflects the mission of We Are NOISE — using creative education to build confidence, communication, and life skills through music. As his tutor, I’ve been genuinely proud and amazed to watch his development over the years. From a quiet, curious young person to a confident performer and lyricist, Zed has shown remarkable growth both artistically and personally. His natural talent for rhyming and flow shines through in every track he creates, and his ability to express real emotion through his words continues to inspire everyone around him. Zed’s story is a true example of how creativity can spark self-belief, connection, and lifelong learning.

Mick Porter - Tutor