On Thursday, December 18, 2025, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued a pardon to Jason DeFord. Americans better know him as the country music star Jelly Roll. This big step represents an important turn in Jelly Roll’s life and career. He’s more than happy to tell his story—an inspiring tale of redemption through music and the Lord.
At the age of 16, Jelly Roll was charged as an adult for what has been described as a “heinous crime.” From childhood, he faced difficulties and hardships. Between the ages of 14 and 25, he experienced incarceration time and again. He has reinvented his life since then, coming out on the other side as a successful artist with charting songs like “Need a Favor.”
In April 2023, Jelly Roll appeared before the Tennessee Board of Parole. He explained that a pardon would greatly simplify his chances to travel and perform outside the United States. He underscored his intention to leverage the pardon as a platform for missionary work in his old age.
“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
Governor Lee’s official pardon ceremony took place at the Tennessee Governor’s Mansion in Oak Hill. There, Jelly Roll connected on a deep level with Governor Lee, who embraced Jelly Roll when the pardon was signed. Addressing Jelly Roll’s journey, the governor said that it was “a remarkable transition,” reflecting the state’s hope and change.
“It’s a redemptive, powerful story, which is what you look for and what you hope for,” – Bill Lee
Through his story, Jelly Roll hopes to encourage those who may one day be in the same situation, stressing that nothing is permanent and change is possible.
“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,” – Jelly Roll
He joins 32 other folks in receiving pardons from Governor Lee, showing the state’s dedication to second chances. Jelly Roll is still looking toward the future with a hopeful optimism. He hopes to use his pardon to further share his message of hope and redemption through music.
