Howard Marks, better known as notorious yet charismatic international drugs baron Mr Nice, has made a remarkable transition into public life since his release from prison in 1995. As well as publishing several books, the former Oxford student can also be found behind the turntables; stumbling into a musical career thanks to the 1996 Super Furry Animals' track "Hanging With Howard Marks".

Unsurprisingly for a music-loving cannabis proponent who grew up in the 60s, Marks has also spent a lot of time lounging on the party island of Ibiza – which makes for the inspiration of this exclusive mix he's produced for The Guardian.

"Although I’ve done my share of watching the sun go down at Café del Mar, summer in Ibiza to me is more about unwinding very late at night, well fed, well oiled, well sunburnt, pleasantly stoned and letting the DJ take me on a tingling journey," he says. "The mix I prepared comprises tracks that I remember worked well when I was in that state."

Marks has spent time in Ibiza every decade since, and including the 1960s: "But my favourite time there was when I was on the run in 1974, a fugitive from injustice," he says. "Bob Marley’s No Woman No Cry
was released and gave me comfort and security. I still love it and enjoy the ensuing remixes. I’ve included my favourite – the Synthetic Epiphany Remix."

The mix kicks off with Mark's stand out summer track; Jack Eye Jones's club mash of the song Changes, I heard You Say. "It immediately triggers off that blissful Ibiza summer state for me," says Marks. "The track is brilliant and never fails to light that inner sun."

• Howard Marks will be appearing at Bestival, Robin Hill, Isle of Wight, September 4-7