Best-selling author releases Christmas single to raise funds for Manchester’s homeless
- Written by I Love MCR
- Last updated 7 years ago
- Charity, Music, People
Best-selling author Tommy Rhattigan is aiming for the top of the charts again. But this time it’s not a book he’s written. It’s a song.
Proceeds from sales of Christmas Wishes will go to a number of charities and organisations which help Greater Manchester’s homeless.
Tommy is no stranger to hardship. He is currently writing a sequel to his book 1963: A Slice of Bread and Jam, a harrowing account of his life as a seven year-old surviving crippling poverty and abuse in the slums of inner city Hulme.
As well as being a best-selling author – the book has sold over 50,000 copies – Tommy is also something of a poet and songwriter.
He has co-written a song with former 10cc star Graham Gouldman but takes most pride in Beating Heart, which has been performed live for the past four years by a full orchestra and 60-strong choir at the Minnesota 9/11 Memorial Concert in the United States.
Tommy says he wrote Christmas Wishes ‘as a reminder of those who are less fortunate than us’.
“As per all my songs, I have never really done much with them,” he says, “but I decided this one could raise awareness and much needed funds for those Manchester organisations dealing hands on with the homeless and less fortunate.
“I am proud to have a song in the charts but I am more proud of the unselfish volunteers who give so much of their time to help our homeless, and who need the donations of food, clothing, tents and so on to keep coming in.”
The song features Alyce Hamilton on lead vocals with harmonies by Manchester’s Sapphire Blue Choir, whose members also make up the Sandwich Angels, a group of volunteers who deliver food to rough sleepers.
Christmas Wishes is released today and can be downloaded from iTunes, Amazon and other online music stores for just 79p. All proceeds from sales will go to organisations helping the homeless across Greater Manchester.
“If anyone wants to donate a little extra, please do!” says Tommy.
Follow Tommy on Facebook.
- Last updated 7 years ago.
- This article was first published on 20 November 2017 and is subject to be updated from time to time. Please refresh or return to see the latest version.
Did we miss something? Let us know: [email protected]
Want to be the first to receive all the latest news stories, what’s on and events from the heart of Manchester? Sign up here.
Manchester is a successful city, but many people suffer. I Love Manchester helps raise awareness and funds to help improve the lives and prospects of people across Greater Manchester – and we can’t do it without your help. So please support us with what you can so we can continue to spread the love. Thank you in advance!
Got a story worth sharing?
What’s the story? We are all ears when it comes to positive news and inspiring stories. You can send story ideas to [email protected]
An email you’ll love. Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news stories delivered direct to your inbox.
Legendary Mancunian producer honoured with blue plaque for groundbreaking acid house track
Bollywood star returns to the Bolton Octagon with fun filled DJ roadshow
Review: Blue Man Group’s Bluevolution at The Lowry is ‘an unmissable, out-of-this-world experience’
Despite a shoe string budget – big ambitions have put Manchester’s Electric Copper Films on the map
