Meet David Yarde, also known in the music world as RudeBoiiiArtist. At just 22 years old, David was convicted of second-degree murder—a crime he has consistently maintained he did not commit. Since 2012, he has been incarcerated, fighting not just for his freedom but for the recognition of a system that got it wrong. Behind prison walls, he has defied limitations—continuing to write, record, and release music that bears witness to injustice while radiating resilience. His persistence is relentless; unyielding and tenacious in his pursuit to become a better musical Artist than he ever was. His recent “Free Me” single has gained global attention from the outer world.
Hailing from the rich cultural roots of Barbados and the Jamaican islands, RudeBoiiiDaArtist is a genre-blending musician, whose music moves between the fire of Hip-Hop and the soul of Reggae. Influenced by lyrical giants such as Nas, Jay-Z, and DMX, as well as the soulful power of Tessanne Chin, Queen Ifrica, Sizzla and Marvin Gaye, his sound is both deeply personal and politically charged.
Recently in September, the "Free Me" track had already entered the Apple/iTunes top 200 chart, where it charted 190 and 181 positions, respectively. The production is authentically raw, and isn’t just a song — it’s a voice rising from behind the walls of injustice. The song speaks to the lived experience of struggle, resilience, and a yearning for liberation; themes that resonate deeply in today’s social climate. It’s not only a personal testimony, but a powerful protest anthem that invites listeners to reflect, feel, and act.
Radio has always played a key role in amplifying unheard voices and catalyzing change. “Free Me” has been making the rounds across the airwaves, and has gained new listenership. An audience that have now become part of that legacy; spotlighting an artist who refuses to be silenced, and whose music turns confinement into creative fire. Free Me deserves to be heard because it speaks to freedom, truth, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Be sure to follow RudeBoiiiDaArtist to learn more about his case and music.
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David’s case is emblematic of a deeper, systemic issue within the Massachusetts court system, which remains overburdened, under-resourced, and broken. There is a chronic shortage of public defenders and legal advocates in the Commonwealth, where the ratio of lawyers per capita is alarmingly inadequate to meet the growing number of complex criminal cases. This lack of legal capacity disproportionately impacts marginalized communities and leads to miscarriages of justice like David’s.
David’s fight is far from over, but with collective action, we can shine a light on the cracks in the system and demand accountability. Justice delayed is justice denied—and David Yarde has waited long enough.
How You Can Help:
❖Sign and share David Yarde’s petition for a re-evaluation of his case. Public pressure matters.
❖Stream and support his music to amplify his voice and raise awareness about wrongful convictions.
❖Contact your local representatives and demand an audit of the Massachusetts criminal justice system and its case backlog.
❖Donate to legal advocacy groups like EJL, Inc., who are working tirelessly to provide the legal firepower missing in underfunded public systems.
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Writer: Dr. E. Rose Green
Email: admin@ejlinc.org
Contact: ejlinc.org/contact
Web: EJLinc.org