Introducing Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll is the stage name of American rapper, singer, and songwriter Jason DeFord. On December 4, 1984, he was born in Nashville, Tennessee. Jelly Roll’s music blends elements of hip-hop, rock, and country, and he is known for his emotionally charged lyrics and powerful storytelling.
Jelly Roll began his music career in the early 2000s, self-releasing several mixtapes and albums. His breakthrough came with the release of his 2013 album, “The Big Sal Story,” which garnered attention and helped him gain a dedicated fanbase. Since then, he has released numerous projects, including albums like “Whiskey, Weed & Waffle House” (2014), “Sobriety Sucks” (2016), and “Crosses and Crossroads” (2018).
Known for his raw and honest approach to music, Jelly Roll often explores personal topics such as addiction, mental health, and overcoming life’s struggles. His lyrics reflect his own experiences and connect with listeners on an emotional level. His versatile style allows him to tackle a wide range of musical genres and collaborate with artists from different backgrounds.
Jelly Popularity
Jelly Roll’s popularity has grown steadily over the years, and he has built a strong following through his energetic live performances and consistent output of music. His fanbase, known as the “Jelly Roll Mafia,” has embraced his authenticity and relatability, making him a respected figure in the rap community.
Seven Lessons About Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll is a rapper, Rockstar, and country guy all rolled into one, and his passion of music crosses genre lines. If you’ve heard of him, you already know how big he is. If you haven’t already, settle down because here are seven things we discovered when Radio Sara spoke with him shortly after the release of his album Whitsitt Chapel.
Stage Name got From His Mother
When he was younger, Jelly Roll’s mother gave him that moniker, and it has stayed. Although his true name is Jason DeFord, he probably won’t recognise you if you call him by that name.
Additionally, the moniker “Jelly Roll” places him in an exclusive group of musicians and bands (think Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Meat Loaf, Korn…)
Shinedown’s Brent Smith served as his inspiration for learning to sing.
“Before I went out (on tour) with Shinedown… I knew I was going to sing for 45 minutes every night, and I knew I was going to sing in front of who I think is one of the best frontmen in rock n’ roll (Brent Smith),” he reveals. I thus went on to have my first singing lesson.
How did he warm up his voice before learning the correct method? “A Jack shot, a hit on the bong, and some Lay’s chips!”
His biggest hits can be challenging to perform live
I’ve never admitted it in an interview because I’m ashamed, but singing “Son of a Sinner” and “Save Me” is so difficult for me. I had to learn how to sing “Save Me” since my muscle memory told me to just sing as high as I could, but I kept singing out of tune years later. I had to master the proper technique for re-singing my own tunes.
He lifted Garth Brooks off the ground because he was so eager to meet him
“I didn’t realise I picked him up until the clip went viral,” Jelly Roll chuckles. “I was like, ‘This is Garth Brooks!’ the huge child in me said.
I was just so happy.… and when I log onto TikTok, my wife says, “There’s a video of you picking up Garth Brooks with 4 million views. Oh no!”
He believes that “Nobody Cries Alone”
His relationship with his followers is strong and completely open.”Nothing is more important than the connection between the art admirer and the creator… Any news, whether good or bad, should never come from anyone other than me.
I’m an empath by nature, he continues. I feel you, not just what I hear.
MSG Is The Venue’s Holy Grail
The Grand Ole Opry and Red Rocks are revered venues where Jelly Roll has performed, but Madison Square Garden in New York City tops his list of must-visit music venues.
The cast of His Life in a Movie
In a full-length movie, who would play him and his wife Bunny? “Jonah Hill must be Jelly Roll, of course… He’s a vivacious, joyful guy in real life, but he can also dress seriously… only Margot Robbie was capable of portraying Bunny. Who else is fitter?