supporting bereaved children & young people
21st August 2020
For Immediate Release
Generation Z, a London based musical group made up of teens aged 13 – 19 years old, formed during the Covid-19 pandemic, writing and recording their first single, ‘Strong’, in lockdown. The single, due for release on the 21st August 2020, is in aid of leading UK charity, Grief Encounter, supporting bereaved children, young people and their families.
‘Strong’ has been written to reflect all young people’s struggles during this challenging time of self-isolation, school closures and anxiety. The release date will coincide with GCSE Exam Results being announced on the 20th August. Generation Z hope that by sharing a positive and uplifting message, they can inspire teens. “Our hope is that ‘Strong’ resonates with young people around the UK, and lets them know they are not alone. Lockdown has had such a huge impact on all of our mental health, but we want to show that they have, and will, come out stronger, and more resilient, because of it.”
Working with an experienced production team including Perrie Young, Bryan Edery and Daniella Joseph, the group felt strongly that they wanted to include aspects of their own journey in the music and lyrics. Adhering to social distancing policies and Covid-19 advice, all group members recorded the song individually, with the track then being later mixed professionally. The music video, set for release on the same day, was filmed as restrictions eased, outside, whilst still observing social distancing.
“I have suffered with my mental health due to bullying that I’d previously endured, which continued online during lockdown. So, when I had the opportunity to be a part of this song, I welcomed it. I can relate so much to the lyrics of our song, as I’m sure many others will too. At a time like this, we all need to stay strong and not let what’s happening stop us from being who we are and doing what we love.” 14-year-old Generation Z member, Olivia said.
Grief Encounter offer open-access, professional support to children and young people following the death of a loved one. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the numbers of young people contacting their national grief helpline have grown exponentially. Richard Fogelman, CEO of Grief Encounter, comments, “We’re thrilled to see young people supporting each other in these uncertain times, and very grateful to the group for helping Grief Encounter raise money and awareness at a time when so many children and young people are struggling with grief. It is so important to recognise the mental health issues children face when removed from their routine and structure, especially when they are dealing with the death of a parent, sibling or someone close. Covid-19 has had such a huge impact on this vulnerable group, we hope this song will help some of those children feel supported.”
The song is available to download, stream and view from 21 August 2020 on iTunes, Amazon Music, Spotify, YouTube and all major platforms.
Notes to Editors:
To play the Single go to
To play the Music Video click on the images above or go to the Grief Encounter YouTube channel
Follow Generation Z on:
Facebook: Strongthesong
Instagram: @Strongofficialuk
Twitter: @Strongofficial
TikTok: @Generation.Z2020
-ENDS-
For more information and to request spokesperson comment, please contact our Press Officer:
sam@griefencounter.org.uk
0208 371 8455
