Ep.02 – Beats Behind Bars – Inside Jail Time Records
In this episode, we explore the transformative impact of Jail Time Records— the first music label created inside an African prison. What began as an art therapy initiative has evolved into a platform offering incarcerated artists a chance to reintegrate into society through music.
We explore the label’s origins, the creative vision of co-founders Dione Roach, a visual artist and director, and Steve “Vidou H” Happi, a music producer and sound engineer. We also spotlight powerful artists like Jeje, Lala Badman, Sa Ngando, and D.O.X, whose music and visuals reflect raw emotion, cultural identity, and the redemptive power of art behind bars.
We discuss the stigma around mental health in Cameroon, the role of music in rehabilitation, and the importance of providing real financial support for these artists beyond social media engagement. Alongside our Picks of the Week, this episode blends humor, cultural insight, and a strong call to action: support the art that supports change.
Songs Played – Credits:
– Jail Time & Lala Badman – Omo Alaja (Made in Prison) Youtube | Spotify
– Jail Time, D.O.X. ft. Vidou H – Offline (Made in Prison) Youtube | Spotify
– Beri Boys Club – Sokoto (Ft. Orock, Djibril’zer, Hookah, Tasse) Youtube | Spotify
– Jail Time & Empereur – SA NGANDO (Made in Prison) Youtube | Spotify
– Jail Time & JEJE – Show Me the Way (Made in Prison) Youtube | Spotify
– Jail Time & JEJE – This Life Youtube | Spotify
– Jadel Tresor – Aveiro Djess Waahh Papa Youtube | Spotify
– Taron X ft. Zamarley – Fowl [Official Video] Youtube
– Aveiro Djess Waahh Papa by jadel tresor Youtube | Spotify
Honorable Mention:
– Beri Boys Club – Kado feat Orock, Djibril’zer, Hookah, Tasse (Clip Officiel) Youtube | Spotify
– ASAMOR – Lekeh Youtube | Spotify
References
• Dione Roach: dioneroach.com
• Jail Time Records: jailtimerecords.com