Days before Bobby Shmurda’s anticipated prison release, GS9 affiliate Rowdy Rebel expressed his appreciation for the “Bobby Bitch” rapper and the role he played in his current fame.

The “Computers” rapper took to social media on Monday (Feb. 8) and penned a heartfelt tribute that read:

“I wouldn’t be here RN if y[o]u haven’t been the same genuine person I met in elementary…I never seen y[o]u fold or bend through treacherous times. Always thinking [a]nd doing for others. I thank God I got a friend like you I could call a brother. I love y[o]u like y[o]u my mama kids ….see y[o]u soon kid.”

The success of Bobby Shmurda’s hit “Hot Nigga” opened doors for his GS9 crew. Rebel took the bait, releasing his “Computers” collaboration with the Brooklyn rapper, but it wasn’t too long before they were arrested and booked on murder conspiracy charges. Shmurda was initially offered a five-year deal, but he decided to take a longer sentence so he and Rebel could serve the same amount of time behind bars.

“I did it for Rowdy. They offered me five and offered Rowdy 12,” he said. “They said the only way they’ll give him seven is if I took seven too. So, you know, I had to take one for the dawgs.”

Rebel was released back in December; Shmurda was granted an early release date. He will be freed from custody on Feb. 23 if he maintains his good behavior.

Among the many people anticipating his return is his mother, Leslie Pollard, who has consistently provided fans with updates throughout the years.

“My [Man Crush Monday]… I am counting down just wishing we could run straight to February right quick,” she wrote in an Instagram post. “The comeback [will] be epic! I can’t wait to hug my child. It ha[s] been almost a year, anxiety is getting the best of me.”