Rapper and author Miz Rok sat down with B-Luke617 on The Bounce Back Podcast to share his raw and unfiltered story—from growing up in Chelsea, Massachusetts, to serving 13.5 years of a 15-year federal sentence, and ultimately transforming his life through music and publishing.
Raised primarily by his mother alongside his siblings, Miz Rok found himself entangled in trouble from an early age. By 12, he was already on law enforcement’s radar, and by 16, he was serving juvenile time for a shooting. His path took a darker turn when an FBI RICO case landed him 15 years in federal prison, a sentence that could have been life if not for policy shifts on mandatory minimums.
Miz Rok’s time in prison took him through some of the most dangerous federal facilities, including USP Pollock (Louisiana) and USP Florence (Colorado). As a Latin King, he had to navigate the harsh realities of gang politics, witness violence, stabbings, and killings, and endure eight years of isolation in total. Despite the chaos, he found solace in writing and music, using them as mental escapes from the brutal environment.
While in solitary confinement, a friend challenged him to write a book—a dare that sparked a newfound passion. The result? His debut urban novel, “Loyal to the Hood,” which he published with the help of another inmate’s family connection. Now a published author with over 13 completed books, Miz Rok runs a publishing company that helps incarcerated writers share their stories.
On the music front, he recently dropped an album, “King Miz Rok,” alongside a new music video for his single “King Rhythm.” With two more albums on the way in July, he’s keeping the momentum strong with an album release party in the works.
Since his release, Miz Rok has been rebuilding his life with structure and purpose. Balancing two jobs—one at Needy Meds and another as a manager at a sober house—he’s committed to staying on the right path. He’s also reconnecting with his children, including a 22-year-old son and a 14-year-old son, ensuring they understand the consequences of his past choices.
Taking full accountability for his past, Miz Rok remains focused on faith, structure, and hard work. Whether through music, publishing, or mentorship, he hopes his journey can inspire others to transform their lives.“I missed out on a lot, but I’m making up for it now,” he shared. “And if my story can help even one person avoid the same mistakes, then it was worth telling.”
