Apr 9, 2021
Wayne Kramer was the lead guitarist of the legendary Detroit band the MC5. The band used music to fight many of the political battles of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The band's raucous and uncompromising performances also provided a complimentary soundtrack to the race riots that plagued Detroit during the 1960’s. The MC5’s political convictions ultimately led to FBI interventions and arrests.
In 1975, Wayne was sentenced to federal prison for selling cocaine to an undercover agent. After his release, Wayne co-founded the non-profit group Jail Guitar Doors USA. The organization uses music and other art practices to provide incarcerated individuals a creative outlet, spiritual rehabilitation and a framework for coping with difficult situations. To date, Jail Guitar Doors USA has provided instruments to over 100 prisons.