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Lately, Jelly Roll is without doubt one of the best-selling artists on the planet.
However there was a time when the Tennessee native — whose actual identify is Jason DeFord — was battling substance abuse points that led to frequent run-ins with the legislation.
DeFord was first despatched to a juvenile detention middle when he was simply 14 years outdated.
Within the years that adopted, he was often out and in of jail following arrests for drug possession, drug dealing, shoplifting, and aggravated theft.
Jelly Roll’s likelihood for a clear slate
Now, the Tennessee Board of Parole has beneficial that DeFord obtain a full pardon for his previous offenses.
The matter is now within the palms of Tennessee governor Invoice Lee who should approve the advice.
“This was incredible,” Jelly Roll mentioned after the board held their vote (through USA As we speak). “I pray this goes through. But today was special for me, regardless.”
In chatting with the board, DeFord mirrored on how music modified the trajectory of his life and led to success past his wildest desires.
“It started as a passion project that felt therapeutic and would end up changing my life in ways that I never dreamed imaginable and opened doors that I’ve never thought possible,” he mentioned, recalling how he started writing songs in jail.
Jelly Roll defined that along with the symbolic significance, a full pardon would allow him to journey internationally with out concern of restrictions.
“I’ll still be using this same pardon, God willing, to go do missionary work in my 50s and 60s,” he mentioned.
Jelly Roll leads by instance
DeFord went on to elucidate that he hopes to encourage others who’ve been incarcerated or struggled with habit.
“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,” he advised 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.”
Lately, Jelly Roll has turned his life round in additional methods than one.
He lately revealed that he’s misplaced over 200 kilos and plans to proceed shedding weight.
And this weekend, Jelly Roll will headline at Stagecoach for the primary time.
Evidently, he’s come a good distance for the reason that days when he was out and in of jail.
Hopefully, Governor Lee will grant Jelly Roll the pardon he so richly deserves.
