Mark Jonez isn’t your typical recording artist. The Montgomery, Alabama native served in the military before finding his calling managing programs within the Texas prison system. Now he’s spreading hope through gospel hip-hop and rehabilitation advocacy. His latest album “Growing Seeds,” released earlier this year, captures both sides of his mission.
The Montgomery-based artist has spent years working inside correctional facilities, but not just as an employee. Jonez leads speaking engagements and Bible devotionals at the Chapel of Hope, teaching everything from the fruits of the Spirit to foundational Christian principles. What started as rehabilitation programming evolved into something deeper—a ministry that views incarcerated individuals as “warriors in Christ” with meaningful journeys ahead.
“I got started doing speaking engagements and presenting my music through various programs within the prison system,” Jonez explains. His approach goes beyond surface-level motivation. Whether he’s addressing a room of inmates or recording in the studio, his message stays consistent: redemption is real, purpose matters, and understanding God’s word changes lives.
“Growing Seeds” spans seven tracks across 21 minutes, opening with “Foeva”—a vulnerable tribute that sets the spiritual tone. The album’s inner tracks, including “Spoken Thoughts,” “Regrets,” “Suffering Servant,” “Tempter,” and “Show Me,” build toward the closing anthem “Dad.” That final track packs the album’s most powerful punch at 3:10, celebrating fathers who stay real, present, and committed.
The hook hits hard: “No running around in these streets, I’m at work bringing home that bag / No giving up when I’ve had enough, I keep pushing forth, I won’t lag.” It’s a call for men to be genuine role models, teaching love in a world that often promotes the opposite.
What makes Jonez compelling isn’t just his music—it’s how he lives his message. His work in the prison system isn’t separate from his artistry; it fuels it. Through regular speaking engagements and one-on-one mentorship, he’s seen firsthand how faith-based approaches can transform lives. Some inmates embrace the message wholeheartedly, others take what they need for their personal journey.
His dual role as manager and minister gives him unique credibility. He’s not preaching from a distance—he’s working alongside people society often writes off, showing them they have value and purpose.
Fans can follow Jonez’s journey on Instagram and X, while his music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
“Growing Seeds” represents more than just new music—it’s evidence that hope and hip-hop can coexist, creating something both authentic and transformative.
