Rahsaan “New York” Thomas spent more than two decades incarcerated before being granted a commutation for his rehabilitation efforts behind bars. He shares how his life was shaped by growing up in Brownsville, “the murder capital of New York,” the music that got him through prison life and what he’s working on now. Here are his songs.

1. Rapper's Delight – The Sugarhill Gang


2. Survival of the Fittest – Mobb Deep


3. Do What I Gotta Do – Ralph Tresvant


4. Good Man – India Arie


5. Black – The-Dream


6. Empire State of Mind (Part II) Broken Down – Alicia Keys

Listen to Rahsaan “New York” Thomas’ full playlist on Spotify and also check out the podcast Ear Hustle about life inside prison. Find the transcript of this episode at lifeinsevensongs.com. Thoughts? Guest suggestions? Email us at lifeinsevensongs@sfstandard.com.