Jelly Roll is an open book about his criminal past.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Raised in Antioch, Tennessee, Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, became involved with crime and drugs at a young age. This troubled path led to his first arrest at 14. By 16, he was facing charges including aggravated robbery. Deford was arrested around 40 times throughout his life, primarily for drug-related offenses.
Because of this, DeFord has spent time in and out of juvenile detention and eventually served time in jail. Despite his past, he doesn't shy away from sharing these stories. In fact, his redemption resonates in his music, making it relatable to his fans. One dedicated fan showed off a pretty impressive portrait of the "I Am Not Ok" singer on his forearm.
DeFord has used his time and resources to give back to the community. But one of the organizations he is partnering with definitely got our attention. It's a non-profit co-founded by one of the prosecutors who put DeFord behind bars.
Jelly Roll Said Jail Saved His Life
According to WSMV-TV, whenever Jelly Roll performs at the Grand Ole Opry between now and September 2026, a portion of every ticket sold will go to the Judge Dinkins Educational Center. The non-profit, co-founded by General Sessions Court Judge Jim Todd, helps at-risk minors with the training they need to complete high school and obtain certification in a trade.
Todd was also a former prosecutor who put DeFord in jail. During that time, Todd saw many young people who needed a helping hand.
"That hit me square in the eye," said Todd in an interview. "The only people they look to in these areas of town are the drug dealers, 'cause they have the money and they have the materials. So that's what they start doing. It's a vicious circle I've seen all my life as a prosecutor, then a defense attorney, now as a judge."
When DeFord heard about Todd's efforts, he called him. DeFord told Todd that jail saved his life.
"When you came back to me and said, 'I wanna help,' I about cried," Todd said to DeFord. "When you start a nonprofit like this, it's very difficult. No one will give you money; it's just an idea. If it weren't for you, these kids wouldn't be getting the help they need."
"What made me want to partner with you guys is you understand, a lot of those kids, they don't know what's possible," DeFord replied. "I'm all in. We'll do as many shows as we can to help raise money and make it our cause."
The First Concert Is Coming Up
Jelly Roll's first two concerts to help the Judge Dinkins Educational Center are on Sep. 22 at the Grand Ole Opry. Tickets are available at opry.com and by calling (800) SEE-OPRY. Click here to learn more or to donate to the Judge Dinkins Educational Center.
