Amy Winehouse, Family, Schools, early life

Amy Winehouse was born in the Southgate area of north London to a Jewish family who were the source of her interest for jazz.

Amy Winehouse was raised in a family of four: her father Mitchell (taxi driver), her mother Janis (pharmacist), and her older brother Alex. Mitchell would constantly sing around the house, often singing Frank Sinatra to young Amy, who also took to a constant habit of singing to the point that teachers found it difficult keeping her quiet in class.

When Amy Winehouse was nine years old, her grandmother, Cynthia, suggested she attend the Susi Earnshaw Theatre School for further training.

At age ten, Amy Winehouse founded a short-lived rap group called Sweet 'n' Sour with childhood friend Juliette Ashby.

Amy Winehouse stayed at the Earnshaw school for four years before seeking full time training at Sylvia Young Theatre School, but was allegedly expelled at 14 for "not applying herself" and for piercing her nose.

With other children from the Sylvia Young School, Amy Winehouse appeared in an episode of The Fast Show in 1997. She later attended the BRIT School in Selhurst, Croydon and attended Southgate School and Ashmole School.