Ex-Scottish Drug Trafficker Returns to Spanish Prison to Perform for Inmates
Allan McCarthy, a former Scottish drug trafficker who turned his life around through music, has been invited back to the Spanish prison where he was once incarcerated to perform for current inmates. McCarthy, now 61 years old and hailing from Glasgow, was convicted of drug trafficking at the age of 23 and served a six-and-a-half year sentence at Sangonera de la Verde prison in Murcia.
While in prison, McCarthy got involved in the prison’s music workshop and formed the band Berlin90. In 1991, three years into his sentence, they recorded the single “Runaway,” which McCarthy penned in his cell. The song gained popularity, winning the inmates a recording session in a national music competition.
After his release, McCarthy, now living in Barrhead, Scotland, has been working on re-releasing “Runaway” with a new music video. He has also been asked to return to Sangonera de la Verde prison to perform a gig for the inmates, which will be broadcast on Spanish radio. McCarthy shared that he met with prison guards who are now in high positions and were the ones who invited him back.
Reflecting on his time in prison, McCarthy recalled the challenges he faced, including being transferred to Madrid’s Carabanchel maximum security prison, known for its brutal conditions. Despite the hardships, he found solace in music and credits it with helping him turn his life around.
Having been banned from Spain for 10 years after his release, McCarthy returned to Scotland and focused on rebuilding his life. He eventually returned to Spain and is now eager to continue Berlin90’s musical legacy. The former jailbird has lived a colourful life, and his journey from crime to music is an inspiring tale of redemption.
In conclusion, Allan McCarthy’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of music and the resilience of the human spirit. Despite facing challenging circumstances, he managed to find hope and purpose through his passion for music. His return to the prison where he once served time symbolises his journey of redemption and serves as an inspiration to others who may be struggling to find their way.