Jason DeFord, known as Jelly Roll, believes he is a living embodiment of God's grace and empowerment. In an interview with Fox News Digital, he shares his journey of overcoming adversity and using his music to inspire others. Jelly Roll opens up about his recent encounter with the Coast Guard and his plans for the future, including exploring new avenues such as film and education.
In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Jason DeFord, known professionally as Jelly Roll, candidly shares his unwavering faith in God and its transformative impact on his life and music career.
"I believe I'm a living manifestation of being equipped by God," Jelly Roll asserts. "I'm not saying I'm perfect or have it all figured out, but I do know that I have a purpose, and I'm trying to live it out every day."
Jelly Roll: A 'Living Manifestation' of God's Equipping
Growing up in Nashville, Tennessee, Jelly Roll faced significant challenges and made poor decisions that led him to prison. However, during his incarceration, he found solace in songwriting.
"I had a lot of time to write songs in prison," Jelly Roll explains. "And that's when I started to realize that I could use my music to make a difference in the world."
Jelly Roll: A 'Living Manifestation' of God's Equipping
Upon his release, Jelly Roll's music career skyrocketed with the release of "Need a Favor" and "Son of a Sinner" in 2022. He attributes his success not only to his talent but also to God's guidance and favor.
"I wouldn't be where I am today without God," Jelly Roll says. "He's given me a second chance, and I'm not going to waste it."
Jelly Roll: A 'Living Manifestation' of God's Equipping
Jelly Roll's music resonates with listeners who have experienced similar challenges. His songs often convey themes of overcoming adversity, finding redemption, and the power of believing in oneself.
"I want my music to be a source of hope and inspiration for others," Jelly Roll says. "I want people to know that they're not alone and that they can overcome anything they set their minds to."
Jelly Roll: A 'Living Manifestation' of God's Equipping
While Jelly Roll acknowledges that he has achieved significant success in country music, he is open to exploring other avenues in the future.
"God might want me in film," Jelly Roll speculates. "He might want me to tell my story a different way. I'm not sure. I got options."
Jelly Roll: A 'Living Manifestation' of God's Equipping
Jelly Roll remains humble and grateful for the journey he has been on thus far.
"I came from nothing," he says. "I'm okay. I'm well past putting out anything for money. Now it really is a why."
Jelly Roll emphasizes the importance of giving back and helping others.
"I was a horrible human for decades," he admits. "But I was able to turn that around and give a message in the music and help people. And that's very indicative of where I came from and how important it is to me to always reach back."
Despite his recent encounter with the Coast Guard, Jelly Roll remains upbeat and positive.
"We got pulled over by the Coast Guard," Jelly Roll says in a video posted to his Instagram story. "It's crazy. We have the sheriff of the county with us, but it actually turned out to be okay."
Jelly Roll's unwavering faith in God continues to guide his path as he navigates the complexities of fame and personal growth.
"I'm still treating everything like, hey, man, I just want to serve people," Jelly Roll says. "I'm looking for songs that have purpose. I'm not sure what's next, but I'm excited to see what the future holds."
