Matt Butler brings show inside San Quentin

March 14, 2024

Matt Butler performed his one-man show, “Reckless Son,” for 100 incarcerated residents at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.

While Butler has performed hundreds of concerts in dozens of prisons, this was his first time performing in a California correctional facility.

In 2016, he began performing in prisons in New York. Moved by his experience, he created “Reckless Son” to share the prison experience with outside audiences. He’s been performing the show for about a year.

San Quentin welcomes singer-songwriter Matt Butler

Matt Butler standing with incarcerated man at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. — Butler’s performances are supported by donations through Art That Serves, a small nonprofit organization.

Matt Butler singing and playing guitar at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. — Butler’s performances are supported by donations through Art That Serves, a small nonprofit organization.

“Every time I come into a jail or prison to perform, I feel very small,” Butler said. “I wonder, how can I make a difference?”

Butler’s soulful melodies and poignant honest lyrics captivated the audience. While his songs touch on relationships, failure, loss, and hopelessness, there is also a glimmer of hope. The possibility of healing, comfort, and freedom are also part of the stories.

“Despite the tough-guy appearances, you would be surprised at the tenderness in these places. I feel the camaraderie, the lack of pretentiousness,” Butler said. “These are the first places I felt genuinely accepted.”

Butler’s performances are supported by donations through Art That Serves, a nonprofit organization. Their goal is to bring the healing power of the arts to people behind walls.

“I do this because it sets me free. If just one person feels less alone, it’s worth it,” said Butler.

Story by David Ditto, incarcerated writer
Photos by Vince O’Bannon, incarcerated photographer
San Quentin News