In this instance “Jelly Roll” refers to the stage name of Jason DeFord, age 40, a rapper turned country music star out of Tennessee.
Apparently, Mr. Deford was involved in some legal entanglements in his relative youth (robbery, drug charges, etc.) and is now seeking a pardon for his past convictions.
According to this Associated Press (AP) story, he received a favorable recommendation from the state Board of Parole. The matter is now in the hands of the state’s Republican Gov. Bill Lee.
The AP reports that a pardon would be more than just a symbolic gesture, it would pave the way for Jelly Roll to honor commitments to perform in Canada and other foreign nations.
I confess to not being familiar with Jelly Roll’s body of work. He is a heavyset man covered in tattoos about his head and person. He made his Grand Old Opry debut in 2021.
The AP reports on his address to the Board,
“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 told the board. “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.”
