CREATE in the Northern Territory brought together an incredible group of young people with a care experience for a special Songwriting Workshop led by Rapper Riley P. This comes after the 2024 workshop where young people wrote and recorded their original song, We want more. Listen here.
We’re proud to share their latest song, I won’t give up, which is a testament to the strength and resilience of young people growing up in care. They are smashing stigma and inspiring other young people to use their voices.
A huge thank you to the young people of all ages who came together to write and sing this song. The song’s message of getting back up when knocked down and chasing dreams will no doubt resonate with and inspire many young people and adults. #SnapThatStigma
Have a listen!
I won't give up | The lyrics
This life
These streets
It gets hard to chase dreams
But I won’t give up
This life
These streets
It gets hard to chase dreams
But I won’t give up
You knock me down
Doesn’t mean I can’t get back up
You can talk all you want, like a cheerleader
But there’s no way I’m going back to the streets
‘Cos once I listened to you, I ended up in the heat
But since I am strong, I don’t care what you have to say to me
I’ve heard more so you don’t need to lecture me
If you’re only for the money and dodging the streets
Then don’t make me a part of it, cos I’m a better me
I need to go to school, so I’m not breaking rules
But so much is going on so I’mma keep it cool
I’m just a young and out there, talking with my all
Watch me rise up, I’m gonna stand up tall
Waking up in the morning, thinking about my friends
What we have built, I hope it never ends
Shout to my family, they’re my world
Lately I’ve been watching out for myself
Looking out the window into the streets
Seeing people asleep as it just repeats
Life goes on so we gotta stay tight
Just making sure we do it right
I’m 15, so it’s time to move, I’m moving up
And I am breaking through
Shout to my friends
Shout out to my fam
If it ain’t that
Then I don’t give a damn
This life
These streets
It gets hard to chase dreams
But I won’t give up
This life
These streets
It gets hard to chase dreams
But I won’t give up
This life
These streets
It gets hard to chase dreams
But I won’t give up
A huge thank you to the Northern Territory Government for providing the Youth Vibe Holiday Grant which made this song possible.
