Jason Bradley DeFord, born on December 4, 1984, is a rising star in rap and country music known as Jelly Roll. Originally a rapper in Nashville, Jelly Roll got his unique stage name before making the crossover into country music with his popular single “Son of a Sinner.” His unique stage name prompts curiosity as to its origins how did jelly roll get his name.
Meaning Behind the Band Name Jelly Roll
The origins of DeFord’s upbringing can be traced back to Antioch, Tennessee, just outside of Nashville. His mother gave him the nickname Jelly Roll, after jelly roll got which he later used to his advantage.
On the Bobby Bones Show, Jelly Roll talked about how his mother used to call him Jelly Roll when he was a chubby kid. He has been overweight his mother his whole life and spent 30 years trying to grow into the name. A classmate in high school, nicknamed One-Arm Clay, also called him Jelly Roll without knowing his mother called him that his whole life.
“One Arm Clay suggested the name Roll, as my mother already called me that. Once the high school all started calling me using the name, it stuck.” Jelly Roll emphasized the significance of his nickname’s adoption, noting that once high school starts calling you something, it becomes an indelible part of your identity.
The Meaning Behind the Sugary Name: Jelly Roll in Country Music – American Songwriter
DeFord began using music and writing songs at a young age, around seven years old. He discovered his talent for fast talking and began writing raps. Growing up with a mother who battled addiction and mental health issues, music became a source of healing for him. Inspired by the positive impact music had on his mother and mental health, DeFord aspired to create music that would have a similar effect on others.
Roll has collaborated with other regional rappers on multiple albums and released his debut country album, Whitsitt Chapel, in June 2023. The album achieved success on various Billboard charts, including No. 1 on the Billboard Top Rock Albums and Top Independent Albums charts, showcasing his influence in the realm of rock music, No. 2 on the Billboard Country Albums chart, and No. 3 on the all-genre Billboard 200.
June 13, 2023: “Save Me” documentary: Jelly Roll’s honest and unvarnished journey to redemption Princess Jones
(ANALYSIS) The documentary “Jelly Roll: Save Me” follows the redemption journey of Jelly, a musician with an odd name. With his breakthrough single “Save Me,” the gritty country singer became well-known. Through song, the documentary offers viewers a glimpse into the life of a disturbed individual who has decided to pursue a road of grace.
Although it was created by ABC Studios, the documentary is available to see on Hulu. The musician’s mother gave him the nickname Jelly when he was small, although Jason Deford is really his true name. He described himself as a “chubby kid,” which is why the name persisted.
