He has four Grammy nominations but can’t leave the U.S. - this country singer seeks a pardon after serving time in prison

Country music star Jelly Roll hopes to take his “message of redemption” around the world, as the Grammy nominee awaits a decision on a criminal pardon that would give him the freedom to travel internationally.

Late last month, the Tennessee Board of Parole recommended the 40-year-old for a pardon for past convictions, the Associated Press reported. The state’s governor, Tim Lee, is now set to decide whether to approve the act of clemency.

Jelly Roll emerges as country star after “cycle of incarceration”

Jelly Roll, a Nashville native whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, frequently fell foul of the law between his mid-teens and mid-20s, in what the artist has described as a “10 year cycle of incarceration”.

Notably, his criminal record includes convictions for robbery at 17 and for drug offenses six years later, according to AP.

Having turned his life around since his troubled youth and early adulthood, Jelly Roll has emerged as an award-winning country musician who raps and sings about his redemptive arc, in a distinctive style that blends the country, rock and hip-hop genres.

An artist who has released 10 studio albums, he earned the Country Music Association Award for New Artist of the Year in 2023. He has also scooped three CMT Music Awards and four nominations at the Grammy Awards.

“So incredibly inspirational”

“Who wouldn’t be inspired by someone who was in prison at such a young age, and is now an incredibly successful businessman, husband and father,” said Jon Loba, the president of the musician’s record label BMG Nashville, in a 2021 interview with Billboard.

Loba noted: “Jelly Roll is one of the most prolific storytellers I have ever known, drawing from real experiences born from real pain, real struggles, real failures and real victories.

“He gives voice to a segment of society that is often overlooked or marginalized, and is so incredibly inspirational while doing it."

However, Jelly Roll’s serious criminal record has curbed his ability to perform his music outside the U.S.

“Some countries won’t let me come”

In a 2023 interview with the legendary rock star Jon Bon Jovi, the artist spoke of the difficulties he has faced in obtaining an American passport and gaining permission to enter other nations.

“We’re figuring out the final pieces of some legal puzzles for me to get overseas,” Jelly Roll said. “It’s funny, America has finally agreed to let me leave and give me a passport, but some countries won’t let me come because of my felonies.”

Per AP, Jelly Roll told an April hearing with the Tennessee Board of Parole that he has recently been able to travel to Canada and the United Kingdom, but noted that it takes a “team of lawyers and a mountain of paperwork” to negotiate immigration processes.

“I want to be an inspiration for people who are now where I used to be - to let them know that change is truly possible,” Jelly Roll added.

“One of the reasons I’m asking for your recommendation for this pardon is because I’m looking to take my message of redemption through the power of music and faith through the rest of the world.”

“Now in the hands of our Governor”

In a social-media post on April 22, Nashville sheriff Daron Hall said: “A year ago, I wrote ⁦@GovBillLee asking for a full Pardon for Jason “Jelly Roll” Deford... Today the Board unanimously recommended his Pardon. It’s now in the hands of our Governor."

Related stories

Hollywood

‘The Final Reckoning’ - the last in the ‘M:I’ franchise?

Celebrities

Rihanna reveals her pregnancy at the Met Gala

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.