Country Star Jelly Roll Says He’s Struggling To Book International Shows Due To Felony Convictions

Country Star Jelly Roll Says He’s Struggling To Book International Shows Due To Felony Convictions

Country star Jelly Roll revealed in an Interview Magazine conversation with Jon Bon Jovi that his past legal troubles are hindering his ability to tour internationally.

The 39-year-old artist expressed his excitement about performing outside the United States, but explained the challenges he faces due to his felony status:

“We’re figuring out the final pieces of some legal puzzles for me to get overseas … It’s funny, America has finally agreed to let me leave and give me a passport, but some countries won’t let me come because of my felonies. We’re working on that. I think it’s going to work in my favor.”

The musician, born Jason Bradley DeFord, has a troubled past with multiple run-ins with the law, including around 40 arrests for various drug charges. His criminal history includes a conviction for aggravated robbery and possession with intent to sell at the age of 16, which led to over a year in prison and seven years’ probation.

Jelly Roll

In a 2023 interview, Jelly Roll reflected on his past crimes, expressing remorse. He stated,

“I never want to overlook the fact that it was a heinous crime.”

Despite his troubled past, Jelly Roll has also openly discussed his journey to recovery from drug addiction and remains dedicated to supporting others facing similar challenges.

He previously said,

“I always said that if I ever got in this situation, I would do everything I could to give back. The fact that just me showing up places can make people happy is such a gift, and I feel like if God gave me that gift, I should show up.”

Jelly Roll

Jelly Roll maintained a positive outlook during his conversation with Bon Jovi, emphasizing his humble beginnings and the journey he’s taken to achieve success in the music industry.

He remarked,

“For the record, I’m a kid from Antioch, Tennessee, whose father never left the southeastern region until he was in his 50s.”

Despite the challenges, Jelly Roll has found success in the music industry, earning three No. 1 country hits in 2023 alone and receiving two Grammy Award nominations earlier this year.

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