Former offenders turn to music to help transform their lives

NINE ex-offenders are turning their crimes into rhymes with the release of a new EP.

Somerset-based charity Key4Life has worked with nine former criminals to produce the record, in collaboration with a number of high-profile names.

Set to be released through Sony Music’s Columbia Records next week, the reformed offenders have infused positive messages into their music, while also describing their experiences of time behind bars.

The five-track playlist features collaborations with Bafta award-winning artist Fred Again and radio host DJ Semtex.

Key4Life helps to provide support and runs rehabilitation programmes for young men in prison and those at risk of going to prison. The charity works with companies to secure employment for ex-offenders.

Of the nine men involved with the EP, two are native to Somerset.

BB, 26, from Weston-super-Mare, and Curtis Blow, from Mudford, have both praised the charity for how it has helped transform their lives.

BB, who has been song-writing from a young age, said he didn’t really have any positive outlets in his life until he joined Kay4Life.

Curtis, 28, grew up near Yeovil and has been involved with Key4Life for around seven years. After battling a drinking addiction, he said he now uses music as a substitute for alcohol and narcotics.

Two singles have already been released ahead of the full EP release next Friday and all funds raised will go towards the charity.

Key4Life founder Eva Hamilton said: “Music has been a central part of Key4Life’s seven-step rehabilitation model.”