In this clip from Red Light Busking Presents Kanda Vol.1: Bedroom Shut, Music Up, a journalist and media representative reflects on the early roots of viral culture — before TikTok, Instagram and smartphones became part of everyday life. The conversation moves from the Tango advert and playground imitation to the arrival of camera phones, happy slapping, online sharing and the way media began to influence young people through new forms of access. The clip also raises a bigger question about media power: who controls the story, who owns the platforms, and whose voices are missing when media ownership is not diverse? Part of The Rise of Social Media storyline, this video looks at the journey from television influence to mobile phones, viral videos, journalism, media ownership and the digital culture young people live with today.

RETALIATION Written and performed by Aydin Rahman, Shamarni Richards, Reece Buttigieg produced by T "Halo" Martin. This is part of the sound tracks released as part of our exhibition called Red Light Busking presents Kanda Vol.1 Bedroom Shut Music Up. An immersive, music-heavy exhibition exploring why music like grime was created and whether it was a reaction to, or a reflection of, life caught up in the criminal justice system, and what wider forces in society were at play... For more details on the event please visit our page https://www.redlightbusking.com/blog/categories/kanda-vol-1-bedroom-shut-music-up

Content warning: this video discusses sexual violence, online humiliation, violence, trauma and retaliation. In this clip from Red Light Busking Presents Kanda Vol.1: Bedroom Shut, Music Up, a teacher and former gang member reflects on how early social media changed the nature of conflict among young people. The clip explores how filming, posting, naming and shaming could turn private harm into public humiliation, making consequences more serious and pulling friends, families and whole communities into the aftermath. Jahran Allen MBE also reflects on the gap in understanding around young people’s online worlds, asking what adults, schools and professionals may be missing when they do not properly engage with young people’s lived experiences. Part of The Rise of Social Media storyline, this video looks at online harm, youth violence, trauma, family impact and the way digital culture intensified real-world conflict.

Written and performed by Monique, Shamarni, Arda, Prince Produced by Menko