on the eve of the day that things change for the rest of our lives...

Tomorrow morning @ 6:30am Arthur L. Jenkins will become a free man after an 8 year prison sentence.




"Have I Been Away Too Long?"- Recorded in 2006 (inside a prison)

He is one of my closest friends and Spread's first artist. We met in 2004 while I was doing volunteer work at an institution that he was trapped in. Through countless letters, illegal recording sessions and Sunday visits we quickly became family. There has seldom been a day in the last 4 years when his existence hasn't crossed my mind.

I don't really know how to feel right now....

It's an overwhelming thought to know that someone I care for will have the bittersweet taste of freedom for the first time since he was 15. He'll kiss his girl, hug is mom and friends and smile because that's what everyone will expect from him... but something inside me knows that deep inside he'll be terrified... There will certainly be challenges in the months and years to come... Bittersweet... I guess... Definitely more sweet than bitter..

When you finally read this A.J.,

I want you to know that I am here for you like any brother would be. Music has been our dream for some time, but what's most important to me is that you find happiness and love in whatever it is that you decide to put your efforts towards. You will be my best man and the guy I share a cigar with on the day of my first born. There is no limit to possibility so long as you believe that there is never just one answer. Keep your mind and your heart open and you will never fail.

Welcome home.

-Dekk-