In the latest episode of Untrapped The Podcast, South Jersey rapper SoClutch delivers an unfiltered look into his life, from navigating the hardships of incarceration to finding purpose in music. Growing up in Wildwood after moving from Philadelphia at the age of five, SoClutch faced an uphill battle, dealing with a lack of structure and a father figure, which led him down a troubled path early in life.
By age 15, he found himself entangled in the justice system, enduring multiple incarcerations in facilities like Annandale and Philadelphia’s CFCF. Reflecting on his time behind bars, SoClutch opens up about the difficulties of being a white inmate and how he turned to rap as both a coping mechanism and a way to earn respect. “I started rapping in 2005 while in a program called Renaissance House,” he shares, noting that poetry and music became his lifelines during a challenging 17-year probation stint.
Though music began as a prison pastime, SoClutch began taking it seriously about four years ago. His lyrics draw from personal experience, offering raw, authentic storytelling that reflects his journey. “It’s not just about making music—it’s about giving people the real story,” he explains. Despite his past, SoClutch remains optimistic about the future, citing rapper Millyz as someone he aspires to collaborate with.
Now, nearly six years free—a personal record since his teenage years—SoClutch balances life as a father with working a legitimate job six days a week. His focus? Breaking the cycle for his children. “I want my kids to understand why I’m working so hard. I don’t want them to make the same mistakes I did,” he says. He also touches on how a gambling addiction played a role in his last incarceration and offers advice for young people to avoid falling into a similar lifestyle.
Beyond his personal story, SoClutch addresses broader issues, such as the flaws in the prison system and the importance of authenticity in today’s hip-hop culture. His goal now is simple: to have his music heard by the right people. “It only takes one to make it,” he declares. With two projects—Insomnia 1 and Insomnia 2—already out and his latest single “Accent” gaining traction, SoClutch is ready for his moment.
Before signing off, he expresses gratitude for the platform to share his story and plugs his music and social media handles, urging listeners to stay tuned for what’s next. “I’ve learned from my past, and I’m working every day to be better. This is just the beginning.”
