Bucking stereotypes is nothing new for DeFord. With his imposing build and intense tattoos, he doesn’t fit the conventional image of a country singer. His music ranges from rap confessionals to acoustic ballads. And yet, legions of fans and critics alike adore Jelly Roll for his unconventional songwriting, spirited performances, and heartfelt subject matter. Earlier this year, he won for “Male Video of the Year,” “Male Breakthrough Video of the Year,” and “Digital-First Performance of the Year” at the CMT Music Awards for his hit song “Son of a Sinner.”
Jelly Roll’s earnest songs come from hard-won life experience, however. In his teens and 20s, he served time in correctional facilities in his native Tennessee, having committed both violent and nonviolent crimes. This past year, the musician gave back by partnering with Impact Youth Outreach, a Nashville-based nonprofit that helps at-risk young people. Jelly Roll donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to the organization, helping it create ten new scholarships, a music program, and even a recording studio.
Over time, Jelly Roll’s philanthropy could help a whole new generation of musicians discover their love for the medium, and give them the ability to share their songs with the world.
