The Tennessee Board of Parole has paved the way for a significant move, recommending a pardon for a country music star, which Governor Bill Lee (R-TN) has to make the final decision.
See the tweet below.
Country star Jelly Roll is one step closer to receiving a pardon that would erase his criminal record and allow him to spread his message of redemption worldwide.
Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, has been open about his troubled past, which includes a robbery conviction at age 17 and drug charges at 23.
His criminal record has complicated his ability to travel internationally, requiring extensive legal efforts just to enter other countries for performances.
The board’s recommendation came after a hearing where several witnesses, including Nashville Sheriff Daron Hall, spoke in support of the country music star.
This represents a significant milestone in Jelly Roll’s journey from convicted felon to award-winning artist who now uses his platform to help others find their path to redemption.
During the hearing, Jelly Roll clarified that his pardon request is not just about making travel easier. He told the board:
“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. 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.”
Jelly Roll Thrilled Over Tennessee Board of Parole Recommending Him for Parole: “Change Is Truly Possible”https://t.co/M0bCztCPKN
— American Songwriter (@AmerSongwriter) April 23, 2025
Governor Lee has acknowledged the board’s recommendation but noted that “there are steps yet to happen in that case.”
Since 2021, Lee has issued over 90 pardons, showing his willingness to give second chances to those who have turned their lives around.
The singer’s transformation from troubled youth to respected artist is nothing short of remarkable.
He discovered a passion for songwriting while in a detention center, which he credits with changing his life.
Since then, he has won multiple CMT Awards, a CMA Award and four Grammy nominations.
Beyond his musical success, Jelly Roll devotes significant time to charitable activities, including visiting jails, feeding the homeless, and supporting at-risk youth.
His application for pardon received support from friends and civic leaders, including Live Nation Entertainment CEO Michael Rapino.
In addition, the pardon would facilitate Jelly Roll’s missionary work and performances in Canada and other countries, allowing him to share his faith-based message of redemption with audiences worldwide.
“We are working … it’s getting good, it’s starting to look promising. It didn’t look good even just six months ago, but it’s starting to look really promising,” he declared.
The country star’s story represents the American ideal of redemption and second chances.
From the streets of Nashville to country music stardom, he has proven that anyone can turn their life around with faith, hard work, and determination.
Now, he seeks to use his platform to inspire others who find themselves in circumstances similar to those of his troubled youth.
The parole board considered his pardon application in October 2024, five years after his sentence expired.
The unanimous recommendation suggests that board members recognize the profound changes Jelly Roll has made in his life and his potential to influence others who are struggling.
As Governor Lee considers this pardon, many of Jelly Roll’s fans and supporters hope that this final step in his redemption story will soon be completed.
Ultimately, this will allow him to fully embrace his role as both a country music star and an ambassador for second chances.
