Jelly Roll’s meteoric rise in country music has captivated audiences and sparked debate. His 2023 was a whirlwind of achievements, including a debut album release, his first headlining country tour, and a coveted CMA Award for New Artist of the Year. Despite this undeniable success, some critics question his place within the traditional country music landscape. This article delves into Jelly Roll’s perspective on country music, his influences, his ambitious plans for 2024, and the songs that hinted at his country music destiny.
Jelly Roll firmly believes that country music boils down to “three chords and the truth.” In an interview on the Full Send podcast, he emphasized the authenticity of his songwriting, stating, “I know if I don’t write nothing else, I write the truth.” He distinguishes between “being country” and “country music,” arguing that the genre has always embraced a diverse range of artists and styles. He cites Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson as examples of authentically country musicians who didn’t adhere to stereotypical themes of rural life. “It’s like country music’s always had a wide stroke,” he explains. “Like Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson wasn’t singing about fishing or hunting. And they were as authentically country as you could be.” Jelly Roll asserts that his spirit resonates with the essence of country music, even if his background and style challenge conventional expectations.
Jelly Roll’s Country Music Roots and Influences
Growing up near Nashville, Jelly Roll absorbed country music through his mother’s love for outlaw legends like Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Merle Haggard. He also developed a deep appreciation for ’90s country icons such as Tracy Lawrence, George Strait, and Garth Brooks, even claiming he could “probably sing more Garth Brooks songs than Garth Brooks can.” His influences extend to more recent artists like Toby Keith, whose “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” became a staple of Jelly Roll’s 2023 tour performances. This blend of classic outlaw country and ’90s country radio hits has shaped his unique sound and perspective.
Jelly Roll’s Ambitious 2024 Plans and Musical Evolution
The “Need a Favor” singer spent much of 2023 writing prolifically, amassing a collection of 80 new songs. He intends to pitch some of these to other artists while experimenting with new sounds for his own music. Jelly Roll has set an ambitious goal of releasing 30 songs in 2024, significantly increasing his output from the 13 songs he released in 2023. This prolific songwriting demonstrates his dedication to his craft and his eagerness to push the boundaries of his musical style. He’s not just resting on his laurels; he’s actively exploring new sonic territories and expanding his creative horizons. This dedication to pushing his creative boundaries ensures that his music stays fresh and exciting.
The Path to Whitsitt Chapel: Songs that Foreshadowed Jelly Roll’s Country Embrace
Jelly Roll’s journey to country music stardom wasn’t a sudden shift but a gradual evolution. Before the release of his first full-length country album, Whitsitt Chapel, on June 2nd, several songs hinted at his affinity for the genre. These songs, often blending elements of country, rock, and hip-hop, revealed a songwriter unafraid to defy genre conventions and explore different musical landscapes.
“Son of a Sinner”: This introspective ballad showcases Jelly Roll’s vulnerability and storytelling prowess, characteristics often found in country music’s most compelling narratives.
“Creature”: This hard-hitting track blends rock energy with country themes, highlighting Jelly Roll’s ability to fuse genres seamlessly.
“Save Me” (featuring Tech N9ne): While featuring a prominent hip-hop artist, this song explores themes of redemption and personal struggle, resonating with country music’s focus on emotional honesty.
“Dead Man Walking”: This emotionally charged song delves into themes of mortality and self-reflection, further showcasing Jelly Roll’s willingness to tackle weighty subjects.
“Sober”: A poignant reflection on addiction and recovery, this song highlights Jelly Roll’s vulnerability and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
“Bottle and Mary Jane”: This track blends country instrumentation with a laid-back groove, demonstrating Jelly Roll’s versatility and his ability to blend genres effortlessly.
“I Need a Favor”: This powerful ballad showcases Jelly Roll’s vocal range and his ability to convey raw emotion, solidifying his country music credibility.
“She”: This heartfelt song explores themes of love and loss, demonstrating Jelly Roll’s ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
“Fall in the Fall”: This introspective track showcases Jelly Roll’s songwriting skills and his ability to craft compelling narratives.
“Wheels Fall Off”: This high-energy song blends rock and country elements, further demonstrating Jelly Roll’s genre-bending approach.
These tracks, with their diverse themes and musical styles, paved the way for Jelly Roll’s full-fledged embrace of country music with Whitsitt Chapel. They represent a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration, culminating in a debut album that solidified his place as a unique voice in the country music landscape.
Jelly Roll: A Country Music Force to Be Reckoned With
Jelly Roll’s impact on country music is undeniable. He’s not just a newcomer; he’s a force reshaping the genre’s boundaries and challenging preconceived notions. His blend of outlaw country, ’90s country influences, and contemporary sounds creates a unique musical tapestry that resonates with a diverse audience. While some may debate his “country” credentials, his authenticity, emotional depth, and powerful storytelling are undeniable. As he continues to evolve as an artist and release new music, Jelly Roll’s influence on the country music landscape is sure to grow. He’s a testament to the genre’s ever-evolving nature and its ability to embrace artists who defy easy categorization.
FAQ about Jelly Roll and his Country Music Career
Q: What is Jelly Roll’s real name?
- A: Jason DeFord
Q: What is Jelly Roll’s musical background?
- A: He started in hip-hop and rap, later incorporating elements of rock and country into his music.
Q: What is Jelly Roll’s debut country album?
- A: Whitsitt Chapel, released in June 2023.
Q: What awards has Jelly Roll won in country music?
- A: He won the CMA Award for New Artist of the Year in 2023.
Q: What are some of Jelly Roll’s most popular songs?
- A: “Son of a Sinner,” “Need a Favor,” “Dead Man Walking,” and “Save Me.”
Do you have more questions about Jelly Roll’s music or career? Share them in the comments below! We’d love to hear your thoughts on his music and his impact on the country music scene. Share this article with other country music fans and join the conversation about this exciting artist.
