SINGER JELLY ROLL PARDONED BY GOV. BILL LEE
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee pardoned country music star Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason Deford, on Thursday, recognizing the Nashville native’s remarkable journey from a criminal past involving robbery and drug felonies to redemption through music and advocacy for second chances.
The Grammy-nominated artist, known for hits from his 2023 album “Whitsitt Chapel” and songs addressing adversity like “Need a Favor” and “I Am Not Okay,” has openly shared his story of transformation, from discovering songwriting in prison to testifying before Congress about the fentanyl crisis and admitting his past role as “part of the problem.”
The pardon, one of 33 issued by the Republican governor around the Christmas season, underwent a thorough review with a unanimous recommendation from the state parole board, and will ease Jelly Roll’s international travel for tours and missionary work. Supporters, including Davidson County Sheriff Daron Hall and Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino, highlighted his rehabilitation efforts, charity work, and influence on at-risk youth, while Lee described his story as a “redemptive, powerful” example of forgiveness for those who have already served their sentences and restored certain civil rights.
The two met for the first time at the governor’s mansion, sharing a hug amid holiday decorations, underscoring Jelly Roll’s evolution into a voice for those whose stories often go untold.
