Country Music’s Newest Star: The Unlikely Rise of Jelly Roll
It’s an unlikely success story, but it’s the kind country music loves to tell. Jason Bradley DeFord, better known as Jelly Roll, has been a name on everyone’s lips in the music industry recently. His incredible journey from a troubled childhood to winning the hearts of fans and earning accolades has been a remarkable one.
The 2023 CMT Music Awards saw Jelly Roll take home Male Video of the Year, Male Breakthrough Video of the Year, and Digital-First Performance of the Year for his breakout song, “Son of a Sinner.” At the 2023 CMA Awards, he received five nominations and emerged victorious in the New Artist of the Year category. Jelly Roll is now a favorite for several nominations at the upcoming 2024 GRAMMY Awards.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Jelly Roll shared his emotional reaction to the CMA nominations, stating, “I wasn’t really sure what Nashville thought of me, you know? It was the nod of approval I prayed for.”
The 41-year-old Tennessee native’s early struggles are well-documented. A tumultuous upbringing led Jelly Roll to a life of crime, and he was first imprisoned at the young age of 14. However, the birth of his daughter Bailee in 2008 prompted him to turn his life around. He pursued his GED and made positive changes, which set him on the path to pursuing his love for music.
Jelly Roll began his career in hip-hop with the release of his first project, The Plain Shmear Tape, in 2003. Over time, he transitioned to rock and country music, resulting in his debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage in November 2021. The release of his album, Ballad of the Broken, in 2021 secured his place on both rock and country music charts.
His 2023 album, Whitsitt Chapel, solidified his position in country music, featuring hit singles “Need a Favor” and “Save Me,” the latter of which showcased a collaboration with rising country star Lainey Wilson.
Despite his impressive rise to success, Jelly Roll remains grounded. He shares custody of his daughter Bailee, and his family and music continue to be the driving forces in his life. Reflecting on his journey, Jelly Roll acknowledged his wife, Bunnie, as a crucial source of support and stability in his life.
As he continues to forge a path in country music, Jelly Roll remains focused on personal growth. With several nominations at the 2024 GRAMMY Awards on the horizon, the future is looking bright for this remarkable artist. His unique story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome adversity, resonating with fans around the world. This unlikely success story seems destined to enthrall audiences for years to come.