San Quentin’s population is changing, and a lot of the old ways are dying out. But some prison OGs don’t want to let go of the past.

Thanks to Alvin “Gator” Williams, Eddie Turner, William “Hitman” Hearn, Isiah Caldwell, Jeff Brown, Tony, Africa, Damien Booth, Cassell Meadors, Darwin “Tall” Billingsley, and Raiveon “Rayray” Wooden for talking to us for this episode.

Episode artwork by Orlando Smith.

Each episode this season will feature new artwork by a different incarcerated artist. It’s part of a collaboration between Ear Hustle and the San Quentin Prison Arts Project, which is part of the William James Association (WJA) and is also supported by California's Arts in Corrections program.

Since 1977, the WJA has helped prepare participants for a successful return to their communities by building family connections, teaching social and communication skills, and giving students an opportunity to contribute. You can find out more about WJA here, and donate to help support its work here.

This episode was scored with music by Antwan Williams, Rhashiyd Zinnamon, and David Jassy.

Big thanks to Guim’Mara Berry and Warden Ron Broomfield for their support of the show.

Ear Hustle is a proud member of Radiotopia, from PRX.

You can download the episode here and find the transcript here.

Episode 86: OGs Got Hella Tricks