by: Bee Delores
Last Updated: December 4, 2024
7 min read
7 min read
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Jelly Roll’s rise from a troubled past to a top-charting music career is a story of strength and forgiveness.
The multi-genre artist used to be involved in crime and drug abuse, but now he uses his pain to make art. He is famous for mixing country, rock, and hip-hop styles.
His success has moved and motivated fans, making his story one of change, forgiveness, and strength.
Keep reading to know more details.
Jason Bradley DeFord, better known as Jelly Roll, has turned a troubled life into an inspiring story of success and forgiveness.
Born in Antioch, Tennessee, he has gone from being a troubled teen to a singing star who doesn’t fit into any one genre.
Aside from giving an interview to People magazine, Jelly Roll talked about the deep wounds from his past and how they still affect his present.
He said, “I’ve been in and out of jail about 40 times since I was 14 years old.” He said that he lived a “narcissistic, selfish lifestyle” during those years, which caused him a lot of pain and sorrow.
Today, though, he’s determined to make things right. Jelly Roll said, “I’m rounding third on my amends list,” referring to how hard it is for him to forgive himself even as he tries to forgive others.
Even though some people don’t like how successful he is, Jelly Roll is focused on using his mess to send a message.
He does things like perform acts of kindness, raise money for jail programs, and teach young people who are in juvenile detention centers.
One moment was when he went back to the same prison where he had been a prisoner, but this time as a symbol of hope and change.
He said, “Some people are mad at my success no matter how much I’ve changed.” That part of me doesn’t owe anything to the past, but I’m getting better at letting go of it.
Not only did Jelly Roll beat his demons, but he also used his fame to inspire other people by putting his pain and redemption into his songs.
Fans connect with his songs, like the hits “Son of a Sinner” and “Liar.” They find comfort and strength in how honest he is.
Being a father has been one of the most important changes in Jelly Roll’s life. When his daughter Bailee was born, things changed.
During an interview, he said, “I was in jail when she was born.” “They came to my cell door to tell me, and I just started crying.” “That moment changed everything in my life.” Today Bailee is 16 years old.
Jelly Roll says she is “so much smarter and more emotionally intelligent” than he was when she was her age. They have a strong bond because they love and respect each other.
The man said, “I don’t judge her by what she does, but by what I know she can do.” Since 2017, Jelly Roll and his wife, Bunnie Xo , have had full custody of Bailee.
They have given her a safe home life after years of personal problems. His bond with Noah, his eight-year-old son, shows how much he wants to end the cycle of pain.
Being a dad affects Jelly Roll’s music and goal. His sad songs like “Save Me” and “Past Yesterday” talk about the long-lasting effects of his difficult past and offer hope for a better future.
He said, “I wouldn’t be the man I am today without my past.” “It gave me strength and a voice.”
2024 was a big year for Jelly Roll, who proved he could do a lot of different types of music well.
When he worked with Brooks & Dunn on a new version of “Believe,” it became his first No. 1 on the Christian Digital Song Sales chart.
This success was more than just a big deal; it showed how well he could switch between styles, from country to rap to gospel-infused songs.
As part of their Reboot II album, Brooks & Dunn worked with singers such as Morgan Wallen and Lainey Wilson on this song. Some Billboard lists, like the Hot Christian Songs chart, gave Jelly Roll praise for his version of “Believe.”
That song also won him a lot of fans who connect with his spiritually charged words and soulful voice.
Jelly Roll’s rapid rise has been shown by his Beautifully Broken Tour, which has gone beyond the charts.
On November 26, 2024, he played to a packed house at Nashville ‘s Bridgestone Arena. It was a homecoming event that honored his trip and the healing power of music.
When Jelly Roll performed on stage with big names like Morgan Wallen, Keith Urban, and Snoop Dogg, it was a mix of a show and a way to let off steam.
Hits from his number one record Beautifully Broken were played, as well as famous covers, such as “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks.
Jelly Roll’s music and message are deeply rooted in his desire to uplift and inspire those grappling with pain, addiction, and hopelessness.
His concerts go beyond entertainment; they are safe spaces where fans can find encouragement and acceptance.
“This is more than a concert,” he told the crowd at Bridgestone Arena. “This is a family reunion of people who are healing together.”
One of the most powerful moments of the Nashville show came during his collaboration with Skylar Grey on “ Past Yesterday ,” a haunting ballad that explores the scars of abuse.
Jelly Roll’s ability to address such raw, emotional topics has made him a beacon for fans seeking solace in music. His commitment to giving back extends far beyond the stage.
From supporting jail programs to mentoring young people, Jelly Roll is determined to use his platform for good.
His journey from a “horrible human” in his own words to a celebrated artist and advocate is a testament to the power of change.
Reflecting on his life, Jelly Roll said, “Miracles happen, and you must believe. Tonight, we get to turn our mess into a message and our obstacles into opportunities.”
His story, music, and mission continue to inspire millions, proving that redemption is not just possible but powerful.
Milestone | Details |
---|---|
First No. 1 Song | “Believe” on the Christian Charts |
Notable Album | Beautifully Broken (2024) |
Major Concert | Bridgestone Arena, Nashville (2024) |
Family Role | Father to Bailee and Noah |
Past Transformation | 40 jail visits to music stardom |
Lover of hiking, biking, horror movies, cats and camping. Writer at Wide Open Country, Holler and Nashville Gab.
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