Wrongfully convicted men form band to share their stories

Ted Bradford, Eddie Lowry, and Donovan Allen are among the musicians in The Exoneree Band, a group formed by men who were wrongfully convicted of serious crimes. The band was created in 2011 during the Innocence Network’s annual conference, where exonerees from across the country gather. What began as a casual jam session among musically inclined attendees evolved into a permanent musical partnership.

Bradford and Lowry were both convicted of rape, while Allen was convicted of murdering his mother. Allen spent the period from age 19 to nearly 35 in prison. His mother was killed one week before his 19th birthday. The band members collectively lost decades of their freedom before DNA evidence cleared their names. They now live in different parts of the United States and reunite to perform.

A band member described the group as a brotherhood of musicians who shared the experience of wrongful conviction. The music serves as a method for processing trauma and sharing their individual histories. One member noted that performing is a form of therapy, allowing him to share his story through song. They view the music as a way to celebrate their current freedom and acknowledge their resilience.

Bradford expressed disbelief at his initial accusation, stating he could not believe they were accusing him of a crime he believed he could never do. Another member reflected on the difficult experiences forced upon them during incarceration, noting that no one should have to see what he witnessed. The group chooses to amplify their narratives rather than leaving the past behind, turning their pain into a message for their community.

Their performances feature a mix of cover songs with altered lyrics to reflect their journeys and original compositions. Amanda Knox, a fellow exoneree, has joined them on stage to perform a rendition of “I Will Survive.” The band emphasizes that their original songs carry the most emotional weight. One member wrote a song titled “My Cell,” which details life in a small prison room. He recalled listening to music on headphones while dreaming of performing on stage.

Bradford debuted a new song called “Innocent Man” at a recent performance for a full house of Innocence Network members. The song includes a chorus that asks, “Lord, why don’t you shine your light on me? Reveal the truth and help them see, for you know the truth will set you free.” The group describes their stage time as an emotional release that heals both the performers and the audience.

The Exoneree Band does not aim for mainstream fame. The members have found purpose and voice through their brotherhood. They continue to perform to share their stories and support the exoneration community.