Explore the life of Jelly Roll, the genre-blending artist from Nashville. Learn about his age, family, early struggles, and rise to fame in this detailed biography.
Who is Jelly Roll? A Quick Overview
Jelly Roll, born Jason Bradley DeFord, is a Nashville-born rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his unique blend of hip-hop, country, and rock. With a career spanning over two decades, he’s become a symbol of resilience, using his music to share stories of addiction, redemption, and hope.
Jelly Roll’s Age and Early Life
- Born: December 4, 1986, in Antioch, Nashville, Tennessee.
- Age (as of 2023): 36 years old.
Growing up in Nashville’s working-class Antioch neighborhood, Jelly Roll faced numerous challenges:
- Family Struggles: His father was a meat salesman and part-time bookie, while his mother battled mental health issues.
- Teen Troubles: By 14, he was arrested for drug possession and later served time for aggravated robbery.
- Musical Escape: Music became his outlet, inspired by Southern rappers like Three 6 Mafia and UGK.
Jelly Roll’s Family: The People Behind His Success
Jelly Roll’s family has played a significant role in his life and career:
Parents
- Father: A meat salesman and bookie who introduced him to the world of gambling and street life.
- Mother: Struggled with mental health issues but gave him the nickname “Jelly Roll” as a child.
Wife and Children
- Wife: Married to Bunnie XO (real name Alisa DeFord), a content creator and podcaster, in 2016.
- Children:
- Bailee Ann: His biological daughter.
- Stepdaughter: From Bunnie XO’s previous relationship.
Jelly Roll credits his wife and children for helping him achieve sobriety and stability in his life.
Jelly Roll’s Biography: From Struggle to Stardom
Jelly Roll’s journey is a testament to resilience and redemption:
Early Career: Underground Rap (2000s–2010s)
- Began rapping at 14, releasing mixtapes like The Plain Shmear Tape (2003).
- Collaborated with local artists like Haystak and Lil Wyte, gaining traction in the Southern rap scene.
Breakthrough: Genre-Bending Success (2020s)
- 2020: Released Self Medicated, blending rap with rock and country influences.
- 2021: Viral hit “Save Me” (with Lainey Wilson) showcased his vulnerability, amassing 500M+ streams.
- 2023: Debuted Whitsitt Chapel, his first full-country album, hitting #3 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums.
Chart-Topping Singles
- “Son of a Sinner” (2021): Topped Billboard’s Country Airplay chart and earned a Grammy nod.
- “Need a Favor” (2023): Blended gospel undertones with rock energy, dominating radio playlists.
Personal Struggles: Addiction, Jail, and Redemption
Jelly Roll’s authenticity stems from his transparency about his past:
- Substance Abuse: Battled addiction to Xanax, cocaine, and alcohol from his teens into adulthood.
- Legal Issues: Spent years in and out of jail, including a 2012 stint for drug charges.
- Sobriety & Family: Found stability after marrying Bunnie XO in 2016. He credits her and their children for his sobriety journey since 2020.
Philanthropy: Giving Back to His Community
Jelly Roll uses his platform to uplift others:
- Addiction Advocacy: Partners with rehab centers like JourneyPure, sharing his story to inspire recovery.
- Prison Reform: Speaks openly about systemic issues, advocating for second chances.
- Nashville Charity Work: Hosts annual toy drives and fundraisers for underprivileged families.
Awards and Recognition
- 2023: Nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammys.
- 2022: Won CMT’s Breakthrough Male Video of the Year (Save Me).
- Streaming Milestone: Over 1.5 billion global streams across platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How old is Jelly Roll?
A: Jelly Roll is 36 years old (born December 4, 1986).
Q: Who is Jelly Roll’s wife?
A: He is married to Bunnie XO (Alisa DeFord), a content creator and podcaster.
Q: What is Jelly Roll’s real name?
A: His real name is Jason Bradley DeFord.
Q: What genre is Jelly Roll’s music?
A: He blends hip-hop, country, rock, and soul, making him a multi-genre artist.
Q: What are Jelly Roll’s biggest hits?
A: Save Me, Son of a Sinner, and Need a Favor are among his most popular songs.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll’s story is one of transformation. From Nashville’s streets to sold-out arenas, his genre-defying sound and unflinching honesty have carved a unique space in music history. Follow his journey on Instagram (@jellyroll615) or stream his music on Spotify to witness the evolution of a modern icon.