The inhumane conditions in Jamaica’s prisons are the focus of ‘Jail House’, the latest song from singer Magran. Produced by MG Records, it was released on September 1.
Magran sings about the major challenges inmates face in Jamaica’s two maximum security prisons. These include solitary confinement and unsanitary accommodations.
“I was inspired to write this song upon learning about these confinement institutions, the poor conditions, insufficient food to feed prisoners, unsanitary conditions of restrooms and the list goes on,” said Magran. “My song and video not only highlights these atrocities but encourage others to stay out of trouble to prevent the experience others have been through.”
The General Penitentiary in Central Kingston and St. Catherine Adult District Adult Correctional Centre in Spanish Town, Jamaica’s first capital, are the country’s maximum security facilities.
They have been the subject of scrutiny for many years by human rights groups, who argue that the Jamaican government should take steps to improve overall conditions.
Magran, who is from St. Catherine, is heavily influenced by dancehall lyricists such as Professor Nuts and General Degree. Like those artists, he takes a light-sided approach to most of his songs.
However, in 2020, he got serious by addressing the Covid-19 pandemic with ‘Stay Home’.
WRITTEN BY HOWARD CAMPBELL