Jelly Roll: 5 Powerful Ways to Overcome Guilt and Shame & How to Finally Forgive Yourself

Jason "Jelly Roll" DeFord openly discusses his troubled upbringing, a cycle of negative behaviors leading to incarceration, and the impact of his past experiences with the justice system, which have shaped him in both positive and negative ways.

Jelly Roll had a troubled upbringing, including a distant mother and an alcoholic father

Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, had a challenging childhood, marked by a rebellious nature which strained the relationship with his mother. His father struggled with alcoholism, but their relationship improved when Jelly Roll exited the judicial system in his twenties. His mother faced her own battle with drug use and significant mental health issues, leading to a reclusive lifestyle that distanced her from the family. Jelly Roll's upbringing was laden with insecurity and disarray, exemplified by his unhealthy relationship with food and the chaotic environment he recalls from birth.

Jelly Roll's personal mistakes as a youth led to a cycle of incarceration and negative behaviors

Jelly Roll's childhood environment played a part in shaping his perspectives and actions. Growing up in an active neighborhood, the desire for acceptance and belonging pushed him into negative behaviors. With a distorted view of money as an escape from his circumstances, Jelly Roll engaged in criminal activities like armed robbery and drug dealing from a young age, leading to multiple stints in juvenile detention and jail. Reflecting on his youth, Jelly Roll admits to making conscious, manipulative decisions without taking accountability for his actions.

Jelly Roll engaged in criminal activities like armed robbery and drug dealing starting at a young age, leading to multiple stints in juvenile detention and jail

By 13, Jelly Roll found himself in the juvenile justice system due to a strong-arm robbery charge, spending about 20 months detained. The cycle continued with armed robbery at age 15, for which he was charged as an adult and eventually served more time after making bond just before turning 17. Having missed out on high school and normal social development, DeFord grew up behind bars, earning a felony record for crimes he acknowledges his responsibility for.

Jelly Roll's past experiences with the justice system had a profound impact on h ...

Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, has become a poignant figure in the music scene, intertwining his songs with his advocacy work, embodying a mission that extends far beyond entertainment.

Jelly Roll's music has become a powerful vehicle for sharing his personal story and inspiring others

Jelly Roll has found a powerful way to connect with his audience by using his music to tackle difficult themes such as addiction, redemption, and mental health. His candid first-person narratives, such as "Save Me" - frequently played at recovery centers, resonate deeply with audiences who see their struggles reflected in his words. Songs like "Unpretty" and "Higher than Heaven" weave themes of self-acceptance and acknowledgment of past mistakes, highlighting Jelly Roll’s therapeutic journey through music. Shetty calls his music "healing music", not a sermon but a shared journey of struggle and healing.

Jelly Roll has leveraged his platform to advocate for criminal justice reform and raise awareness about the opioid crisis

Jelly Roll is not just using his music for advocacy; he's taking active steps to bring about change. He brought statistics about drug deaths to Congress to raise awareness of the severity of the opioid crisis, aiming to put a human face on drug addiction. Furthermore, his performance at an Oregon prison, the first live event allowed there in 20 years, emphasized his commitment to spreading hope among inmates.

He’s also working with Jim Todd, the attorney who once prosecuted him, on the Dinkins Center for juveniles, to teach trades to at-risk youth. Such efforts are a testament to his dedication towards criminal justice reform. Inspired by Shia LaBeouf, he’s shifted his focus from seeking happiness to being useful, finding fulfillment in walking the path he believes God intended for him.

Jelly Roll's c ...

Jelly Roll's transformation can be directly attributed to the meaningful relationships in his life, particularly his marriage to his wife, Bunny, which has been a cornerstone in his personal and career growth.

Jelly Roll's marriage to his wife, Bunny, was a pivotal turning point in his life and career

Jelly Roll considers his spontaneous marriage to his wife Bunny in Las Vegas as the turning point in his career. He describes himself as a lost cause before meeting her, embroiled in a custody battle, financially broke, living out of a van, and battling addiction. However, Bunny’s entrance into his life catalyzed profound changes, making him whole and providing a new sense of purpose. With her support, he pursued and gained custody of his daughter, setting up an apartment and standing with him in court. She gave him patience and grace, which he feels he might not have deserved, signifying the crucial support during his difficult times.

The dynamic between Jelly Roll and Bunny exemplifies the importance of open communication, accountability, and mutual understanding in relationships

Bunny isn't afraid to hold Jelly Roll accountable, particularly in private, and confronts or checks his behavior as needed. The couple has learned to navigate their fight styles and how childhood traumas affect their behavior, which has allowed them to understand each other's perspectives and grow together. Jelly Roll reveals that they haven't always been fully healed individually, but their joint development has been significant. Accommodating each other's needs, such as giving space or balancing homebody and touring life, shows their mutual understanding. The couple has found ways to address issues productively, adopting a team mindset to solve problems and support each other, indicative of a strong, dynamic relationship.

Jelly Roll's relationships with his family, including his brother and father, have also played a key role in his person ...