10/05/2026
π§ Mixcloud.com/deejave π§
I recently entered this competition to get my mix played on NTS radio - about music when you were 15. Doubt it'll get played cos of my awful commentary, so here it is π«
I was 15 in 1996 and WORRA YEAR!
Prettttty new to decent music, I relied heavily on Now 35 and 36 and the telly box.
Soooooo, for my 15th birthday I went to see Millwall v Palace (1-4) (more of a Man United fan, but The New Den is a bit cheaper - cheers Dad) and I saw the Firestarter video in the bar after and I spat out me Coca Cola in absolute FEAR.
Of course, Euro '96 hit hard. Watching England get pummeled in the pens and the walk home with a bunch of pals (from the social club my Dad managed) was v v v depressing.
Playing ball before most of the group games was a great time. I reckon one of my favourite football memories. We did win Eurovision though and Man United won the double, so can't complain (but I will).
Then SPICE MANIA hit. Absolutely obsessed. Couldn't escape it. You had to be there to understand. If The Beatles took black and white TV into colour, then the Spice Girls took colour TV into garish technicolour. Still love Baby loads.
During my paper round was when I did most of my cassette tape listening. Sheryl Crow and Jamiroquai are burnt into my skull, plus iffy Euro Pop was kicking hard at school. Felt like a proper raver (bed by 9pm).
And of course on the telly box was TFI Friday wiv all yer Britpop needs, Only Fools and Horses (Batman and Robin) and that Vicar of Dibley Christmas special with all the roast dinners. Hilair.
I couldn't find a photo of me when I was 15, so you'll have to make do with one of me when I was 11/12. I've already had a go at me Mum, don't worry.