Rapper-turned-country singer Jelly Roll

The artist known as Jelly Roll is a 39-year-old former rapper whose songs tell of the troubled life he used to lead. He's now one of the biggest names in country music, with two Grammy nominations this year. With correspondent Kelefa Sanneh, we go with Jelly Roll to one of the many jail cells he lived in, where he wrote songs and hatched his plans to make it in music-eventually finding himself on the "holy ground" of Nashville's Grand Ole Opry.
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[@BunnieXo]

That’s my baby 😍

[@redneckerthanyou859]

I love you guys!! It's so sweet how proud of each other you are and how you support each other! ❤️❤️

[@MrsAlmaTrumble]

We love you and Jelly Roll.

[@simonegarciatsu2854]

Y’all are too cute 🤍 Congrats to you two !

[@johnapellicci3896]

Yo at first I got mad like bish that's bunnies man😂

[@missyjoyner6784]

Yes 💯 indeed bunny

[@sandrashevel2137]

He has come so far. We love him. Jelly sings from his soul.

[@Firemedic1985]

Get a life

[@OddballHillbilly419]

​@pylesl71631 you first little one

[@RebeccaMiller-zk9bg]

❤❤ 1:30 grea

[@RebeccaMiller-zk9bg]

Q❤andkisses

[@UpsonPrattJr.]

He's the Roll we can't put down.

[@angelo8424]

Jelly Roll has saved a lot of lives- Including mine.

[@lilslick72591]

Mine as well

[@MarilynMejorado-ee8qh]

Amen. ❤

[@donnaallgaier-lamberti3933]

What impresses me about this man is his kindness to others. Whenever he travels he finds people to help.

[@debbierennox931]

He is a real Christian ❤️

[@musiccitymom2]

Jelly Roll is one special human.

[@MelissaBytwork]

Amen

[@icshay21]

Thanks for sharing him with us❤ and thank you for sharing you❤

[@kimberlyokeeffe5360]

His music is not just for those who have been to jail, are in the throws of addiction or in recovery. It's for all of us because we all have a dark hallway in our minds. My day is not complete without hearing one of his songs. Thank you God for this man!

[@boredonawednesday]

I proposed to my now fiance in the pit at the Jelly Roll concert in Noblesville last summer. It was a great concert and an even better day!

[@CoachAshley1983]

I was right by you guys! What an incredible day it was!

[@carbonbomb4774]

That's sad

[@theirrationalgamer8174]

@@carbonbomb4774 indeed you are

[@theresa7746]

Congratulations to Bordon Wednesday 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 🥂 to you both and MANY more years of Happiness .

[@TattedIrishxxx]

Ohhh I love this!!! Congrats to you both!

[@AY-nr5uy]

Give this guy props ! He over came additions etc... Proves you can overcome.

[@timclary5614]

It looks like he hasn't overcome his addiction to carbohydrates.

[@Skateandcreate9]

Cmon bro at least spell addiction properly 😂

[@barbaragallegos3004]

Absolutely!!

[@05FLSTC]

​@@timclary5614 he lost 200 pounds

[@OddballHillbilly419]

​@@timclary5614looks like you're still addicted to ignorance

[@ShellyBomb]

The old adage "Don't judge a book by its cover!" 📖 couldn't be more true!! 🤩

[@TheOzzyLover]

It’s so cool when the universe lines up to give someone like Jelly a voice❤ We need his vulnerability and that makes his honesty mean something. Closing the gap between the haves and haves not just to show that money, success, popularity etc doesn’t equal happiness. It’s the quality of relationships and the love you give that truly makes you happy!!!❤

[@All5AJz]

Well said Ms. You took the words and gave a beautiful message many of us feel. ❤

[@Smilingthroughmygrief]

This man’s lyrics just touch your soul. When I saw him win a CMA I thought - who the hell is this guy?? Then I did a deep dive and have been changed. His music resonates with my soul in a way I never expected but am so grateful for! ❤

[@berlyn3014]

I completely agree with what you said. I wasn't familiar with him until an awards show. I was like Jelly Roll?? I looked him up and wow. I bought his latest album and every song on there speaks to me in a way that makes me feel like someone understands.

[@MelissaBytwork]

Love soo❤❤❤

[@MrsAlmaTrumble]

I've never been into drugs or alcohol but his story brings me to tears. We can all change ourselves for the better.

[@lorddylanwolford3192]

Him and his wife r such humble big hearted people i love them

[@vonniepitts5136]

Jelly Roll is one of THE MOST BEAUTIFUL and GENUINE people on this earth! Many blessings to him & his family.

[@catiejunkins5276]

I only know like three songs, but I’ve been following him for months. He and Bunny are just so down to earth and open about their past. He seems so genuinely thankful and humble about what he has, and so set on using his position to give back to those going through what he’s been through.

[@jacobus57]

Bunny is his biggest liability.

[@Dragonpixilll.]

I got to take my daughter to her very first concert almost 20 years to the day after I saw my very first concert at the very same venue. My dad took me to see Creed 09/22/2003 at the Paycom Center in OKC, I took my daughter to see jelly roll 09/19/2023. It happened by total coincidence but I wouldn’t change it for the world. We were in the rafters for jelly roll but it didn’t matter, one of the greatest experiences of my life getting to see someone I love like I love jelly. I’ve never been so damn attached to a musician not ever like I am this man. He deserves all his flowers. When he ended the show with Save Me I sang/screamed/bawled my eyes out. I’ve never had music pull emotion out of me like jelly does. His victories are our as well and every last one of us feels it.

[@teegee0400]

He deserves every moment of fame and recognition!!

[@torriwalker4867]

Jelly roll is an around amazing artist. It's about time you got the recognition he deserves

[@mirandalewis9901]

Jelly Roll just has that very rare and special gift of being able to reach people’s soul through his music. I am beyond happy for him and I like so many others hope to be able to see him in concert and meet him someday!!!!

[@MarilynMejorado-ee8qh]

He sings straight from my soul❤

[@rosemarymayseiter8559]

I remember seeing him at a concert in Mansfield Ohio at the Ohio State reformatory in 2022 and he was a rapper now he’s a country singer congratulations on your new success ❤

[@MrZonnie]

Jelly Roll is such an amazing artist. He sings therapeutic music that touches all of us. No matter where your from, what you feel when listening to his music is unbelievably real and raw emotion! He touches all of us in so many ways. We all love you Jelly Roll!

[@minxbade]

I can't explain what he is or how he's affecting the world but it's powerful. I've never had an artist cause me to see things and hear things that otherwise I would have ignored. Clearly a work of God.

[@user-ls9nm9uy5s]

Jelly's testimonies of his life and songs offer the listener hope through the Lords love, forgiveness, and redemption. Thank you Jelly for sharing you're Music and best wishes to you !

[@Darci3333]

He is a testament that music can speak to the heart and soul when sometimes nothing or no one else can.....he has such a true humble spirit and heart. He is a mighty blessing to the world and God is showing how he uses the ones you would never think he would to send a message.❤

[@florencebass6984]

I love JellyRoll, bless him. He has made it his mission to help others, such a big heart, and a deep soul❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@TheBourbon88]

You can tell he lives inside of his own heart and it's beautiful! ❤

[@SS-ki6ie]

This is a great story! I am tearing as I learn Jelly Roll’s story. He is inspiring with his craft and his message. You go Jelly Roll! Many people believe in you!!

[@AY-nr5uy]

Touches your Soul. That lady correct.

[@chickenmama823]

First time I saw this man was just last week giving his testimony to Congress regarding the fetanyl epidemic. I was blown away by his honesty and amazing articulation of the epidemic. His music is sounds amazing too.

[@yankeeladee02]

✨💖 Jelly and Bunnie make such a powerful and loving couple. A true example of complete support and belief in one another. I love how devoted they are to their family and friends. They also give back to many struggling with addiction, incarcerated folks trying to turn their lives around, those that are food insecure and those going through homelessness. Bravo for the music that lifts and inspires. Let the sky be the limit for the Defords. 💖✨

[@perijetton9275]

“There is a very dark hallway between my ears”. I felt that! ❤

[@cherylnelson3923]

He has come a long way! Glad he got his life together! God bless!❤️

[@GregoryCoffey-hc1kc]

❤ I love your music but mostly the man you are now & letting people know how hard life can be & people are able to change their lives. Your a good man!

[@Clean12Silverado]

He stands for a lot of us working class people. ❤

[@RocStarr913]

So do many black vocalists.

[@user-fw5yc7ks5t]

This story was so wholesome. My mom passed away from cancer in 2023 of May and watched this show every Sunday morning. I try to watch it for her when I can too and it always makes me feel happy like she said it did for her.

[@russelladams1061]

🙏🙏🙏

[@davelledivine]

I am covered in goosebumps and soaked in tears, inside STILL grieving, and I promise you I will NOT STOP EITHER Mr. jellyroll! You came to me today like Santa Claus didn't come for us Less than a month ago! You have Re-sparked my drive to inspire change in place for me and my littles that are RELYING on us both. TYSM and may God bless you and your family and our collective cause.

[@ccraisins2005]

I'm a fan who doesn't like his music, but I like him as a person and I love watching all of his interviews. He has a great story to tell. I wish him all the success in the world. We need more artists doing this much for the community and just being honest about things instead of this fake influencer lifestyle we see online.

[@thooks1234]

I am in the same boat I would say. Not a fan of his music, his lifestyle, etc. I've studied him for several months and I'm seeing that he does have a desire to help others and it's from his heart. I know that people like him who have been through what he has - they have a lot of experience through lenses that many don't get to see and quite frankly, most don't want to see nor could they even handle it. I am glad he has been given a chance to use his kind-heartedness to help others in many ways.

[@octoberdiamond]

Same

[@walterzipp4343]

What a story it hits me deep

[@jaydenadams4272]

I love and adore this man and his family. So many of us have walked these roads alone. He is showing we are not alone

[@ladypalomino3151]

Jelly you touch the heart man. It's so good that you are throwing out that lifeline to help us. You let us all know that no one is perfect. But if we keep going we will find our dreams and what makes us happy..Addiction is a dark hole and if we want to change our lives, we can. We can crawl out of that hole and make our life matter. Thank you jelly.

[@ryleeoleary3409]

Was a fan of jelly in hs 17 years ago loved his music then love the growth and new music

[@carolloosemore415]

God Bless you Jelly Roll , everyone deserves a second chance.You sound better as a country singer.keep up the good singer You are number one,you sing from your heart and soul number one singer is you.

[@lilslick72591]

Just to think that save me was never supposed to be released.... The fans begged him for it.

[@bradr2142]

Good luck to you jelly I'm glad you found God. Amen Brother.

[@fortheloveofgod7258]

❤️ Discovered Jelly Roll on 02/09/24. ❤️ Fell in love with Jelly Roll on 02/09/24. 🏃🏼‍♂️ Keep going Jelly Roll.

[@mattmehtala7441]

3:33 13 years later that song riding all alone is still personally my favorite song iv had the pleasure of discovering.

[@Favrtmistk]

The absolute most beautiful human ever. He struggled his way all the way to the top against everything. Sharing the reality of life both good and bad. His vulnerability and honesty is just beautiful. His impact on people and all he does now has made up for any bad in his past. He deserves everything and more!!❤

[@debbierennox931]

Yes he does he will help so many people ❤️

[@joshstansberry9103]

I've been on jelly since haystak start to finish dvd I want to say that was the year I got married which would be 17 years ago still rocking with Angie. Still rocking with jelly... help me through some tough times enough, forever grateful

[@robind.2290]

I love his songs, so down to earth and honest. He has come a long way!

[@colleenkerr4237]

If not everyone knows this guy eventually they WILL!! I think he is the most humble singer of our time and I'm so glad I'm in this era to witness his music. This guy is going to top the charts for many more yrs to come❤ Love you JR

[@luckyreed1152]

Quit labeling, he's an artist. And a beautiful soul!

[@SRQmoviemaker]

Man ive been listening to jelly roll since he was a rapper and it makes me so happy to see what hes become.

[@MidnightSkyBeauty316]

God bless you Jelly! Ur heart and soul is a real treasure and also helping others overcome their struggles ❤

[@florabamabelle6413]

Sixty eight and just learning about Jason. What a great story. You do deserve all the good things coming your way.

[@georgerobbins8823]

God bless you and your love of others, Jelly Roll!

[@yesimerin]

Never thought in a million years... back in the day listening to jelly rap...man, proud he broke through. Killing me with the heavy rotation though!!

[@lorn63]

There are success stories out there and this is one of them.

[@walterzipp4343]

Music can save you but it can't take the pain away

[@walterzipp4343]

😢

[@user-dw3zv7qc7z]

Every time I hear this man's voice I almost cry and sometimes do because I finally found someone who feels like I do

[@donnabryant5313]

Don’t you dare try to categorize this man. His gift, his heart and soul are limitless ❤️‍🔥

[@kizunadragon9]

A man is not judged by the way he falls down. A man is judged by the way he gets back up. Jelly Roll is an incredible human. The man in black passed the torch. Johnny is looking down at jelly Roll and saying, "it's up to you now"

[@itsfroggertv2068]

He still a rapper but also a country star. I mean I went to his concert a couple months ago and it was just as much hip hop/ rap as it was country. Good mix of just great music from different genre.

[@geoffspakes]

I’m not a fan of his music (don’t dislike it, just not my jam), and that’s okay…not every genre is for every one, that’s what makes music wonderful. But what a powerful and uplifting story…never give up on hopes and dreams.

[@rickyferguson2362]

An Amazing Young Man!! Never Judge A Book By Its Cover!! GOD ALLOWS YOU TURNS!!

[@kevinembrey2614]

Riddin all alone is the first jelly roll song I ever heard and been a fan since

[@lr8763]

The yet the road ahead has even more challenges . Addiction has 1000 faces . May God grant is all serenity, courage and wisdom.

[@ChichiLibra1012]

He has overcome so much and come so far! Bunnie too!

[@jacobus57]

Bunny is a huge liability.

[@cwbintn8949]

I am so proud of my boy Jelly.

[@ellahodgdon6053]

God Bless you jelly roll Maine here .

[@ryanshaw2223]

Such a beautiful soul. I’m turning 55 in April and still trying to figure things out with life. 😢

[@MarilynMejorado-ee8qh]

We love love Jelly!! He sings straight from our souls. ❤

[@judydenton3886]

Jellyroll, you are on a better road now. We have all been there at one time. So happy for you!

[@debbierennox931]

He is so real lord bless him and keep using him he will reach so many ❤️

[@jonaford2486]

My son played save me about 3 years ago and I cried he felt that way. He recently told me " mom I'm trying so hard and nothing has changed and now I got Noah " I told him to continue to listen to your music and your words and maybe you can inspire him again

[@user-il6zg6lz7k]

This man is amazing and his journey will be amazing also.

[@BrokenLady67]

Been following him since the universal home grounded episode of 2020

[@ronismith9883]

I am the least religious person on this earth, but I like Jelly Roll and his message to believe you can do better and be better. I think he is an honest man who portrays an honest outlook on the human experience. He has lived it.

[@worldstallestmidget]

The more I see, read and hear about him like him more and more. A very likable person.

[@jameshastings4966]

This man really needs to run for president.. Thats the change we need in the U.S .. Has my vote

[@leannebarcelos5292]

Im addicted to your story, your song she … is my daughter god rest her head softly in the lords hands

[@karenwebbkryder6562]

“Cracked people allow the light to shine through”. Groucho Marks quote…….we are all cracked, flawed and broken. Humbleness, faith and honesty are every-single-thing

[@suzannepropst596]

Wow! Always loved his songs but didn't know the back ground. How beautiful. He sings from his soul and touches ours. Brought some tears when I learned his name is Jason...I have a 34 year son , Jason Andrew who has many issues... Jelly Roll would talk and sing some sense into him!!!

[@crystalbenton5410]

I love Jelly Roll he's so generous and humble and a kind soul and he's not ashamed of where he comes from and if Jelly Roll can do anyone can do it to fulfill there dreams and be a better person I'm so proud to be a FAN of Jelly Roll keep on showing and providing that's this and so much more ❤❤❤❤❤🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@pureogkush4207]

Been A1 since day one. Met jelly back during the braids days

[@reneesinsky9870]

I absolutely love him! I relate to his music! He’s human ! Coming from a abusive life ! He’s amazing and I had the chance to see him in concert and look forward to seeing him again! ❤

[@sweigh72]

As someone from the UK I’m not that familiar with Jelly but seeing this and hearing him sing in the prison and those without their liberty listening to him and feeling the power of his lyrics got me 😢

[@billyjack1825]

Who doesn't love, "The Role?!" The man of all men!!!!!!!

[@janeysweeney7391]

So proud to of watched Jelly Roll grow to now! Amazing beautifull talented man 💯🔥⭐️😘❤️🇬🇧

[@justinkouns5879]

If there is one person in this world who i would love to just meet and sit down and hang out with its definitely jelly roll god bless him and his family i love him and bunny!

[@olgavalenciaduarte5349]

I WISH YOU COULD COME TO THIS FORGOTTEN TOWN TO TALK TO OUR KIDS, I THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO FOR PEOPLE ESPECIALLY ESPECIALLY.

[@michellecox-garcia3001]

I have been following Jelly Roll, ever since I heard “ Save Me”!!’ I love him!!!’

[@lorinasr7910]

Your songs helped save my sons life. Thank you so much,Jelly 🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@MerlsAlfred]

He’s amazing I love him

[@tracyfranklin3569]

Everytime I hear you sing God is pulling out of the mug and back into His grace. Thanks you.

[@sonyahamner7346]

Jelly you deserve all God gives you. You have earned it.!!!! And just so you know I can totally relate to you.

[@user-ow3xu3go1g]

From rap to country, he sounds good, hope his life turned for the better too.

[@lauradehart8182]

Jelly is the TRUTH!! Thank you for being so transparent. ❤

[@stephaniedavis7033]

love that i am #69 to like this vid (been a fan since his 10 minute freestyle rap) and if my P.O. asks...I hang dry wall #JellyRoll

[@lilslick72591]

The day that 10 minute freestyle dropped is the day I found him

[@vickyrussell1672]

Jelly Roll is just simply Awesome ❤❤❤ I wish he would come to the CLAIBORNE COUNTY jail and talk to them inmates there in Tennessee

[@theplaguepadart3743]

I love Jellyroll His music and how he acts makes me feel like im worth putting effort into my self.