Hip-hop production thrives among incarcerated individuals in Scotland

"I'm living my life, it's time to move on because there are no guarantees that tomorrow will come," says Paul, a 29-year-old prisoner in Barlinnie, Scotland's largest prison. The prison, known as The Big Hoose, is over 140 years old and is set to close once a replacement is built. Currently, the prison is overcrowded, with a capacity running at almost 145%. However, amidst this environment, Barlinnie has launched its first hip-hop classes for prisoners. Funded by Creative Scotland, the eight-week course aims to give inmates a voice and boost their confidence and self-esteem. The classes also offer prisoners something to look forward to and combat the poverty of hope. During our visit to Barlinnie, we spoke to some of the participants, who shared their stories of redemption and the positive impact music has had on their lives. Despite the controversies surrounding providing free music classes to convicted criminals, these workshops offer a chance for change and rehabilitation. One of the participants, Robert, believes that the hip-hop classes can help him turn his life around and bring about positive change. The workshops culminated in a showcase where the prisoners' recorded songs were played to an audience consisting of other prisoners and guards. The success of these workshops has prompted plans to continue offering music classes in the future, with next year's focus shifting to folk music.