American rapper JELLY ROLL receives pardon recommendation from Tennessee board of parole

Thursday, April 24, 2025 - Country music star Jelly Roll has moved a step closer to receiving a full pardon as he continues efforts to distance himself from a troubled past marked by multiple incarcerations. On Tuesday, the Tennessee Board of Parole voted unanimously to recommend a pardon for the artist, whose real name is Jason DeFord, during a 45-minute hearing attended by the singer. One board member recused themselves from the vote.

Jelly Roll was seen embracing Davidson County Sheriff Daron Hall following the decision. Hall, who had petitioned Governor Bill Lee for the pardon a year ago, posted the moment on social media, celebrating the board's recommendation. The final decision now rests with Governor Lee, whose approval is required under Tennessee law.

During the hearing, the Grammy-nominated performer expressed a desire to be a symbol of hope and redemption. He told the parole board that he wants to take his message of change to a global audience, stating, “One of the reasons I’m asking for your recommendation … is because I’m looking to take my message of redemption … [across] the rest of the world.”

Jelly Roll has been candid about his criminal history, which includes over 40 arrests. His first run-in with the law came at age 14, and at 16, he was charged as an adult for aggravated robbery. In a previous interview with Billboard, he described the robbery as the worst decision of his life. His transformation began at age 23 with the birth of his daughter, Bailee, while he was serving time for drug dealing.

Now far removed from his former lifestyle, the “Save Me” and “Liar” singer has become a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform. He speaks at prisons, rehab centers, and schools, and earlier this year, he testified before Congress in support of legislation targeting fentanyl overdoses.

Jelly Roll, who gave his first international performance in July 2024 after past convictions had complicated travel arrangements, has also revealed that he no longer uses hard drugs and has turned to marijuana as a way to stay clean.