Jason Bradley DeFord, widely known as Jelly Roll, is one of America’s most inspiring success stories — a man who transformed addiction, imprisonment, and poverty into a Grammy-winning music career. His rise from the streets of Nashville to becoming a mainstream country-rap superstar is a journey millions of U.S. fans deeply connect with.
This biography covers Jelly Roll’s age, early life, parents, wife, daughter, net worth, career, arrest history, songs, and key life facts searched heavily on Google in 2025.
Jelly Roll Profile Summary
| Full Name | Jason Bradley DeFord |
|---|---|
| Popular Name | Jelly Roll |
| Age | 39 years (2025) |
| Date of Birth | December 4, 1985 |
| Birthplace | Nashville, Tennessee, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Singer, Rapper, Songwriter |
| Genres | Country, Rap, Rock |
| Net Worth (2025) | $6 million – $8 million (estimated) |
| Wife | Bunnie XO |
| Children | 2 |
| Famous For | “Save Me”, “Son of a Sinner”, “Need a Favor” |
⭐ Early Life & Background
Jelly Roll was born and raised in the Antioch neighborhood of Nashville, a community known for high crime, poverty, and limited opportunities. His life was filled with challenges from a young age:
- His father struggled with addiction
- His mother dealt with mental health issues
- He began selling drugs as a teenager
- By 14, he was in and out of juvenile detention centers
Despite the chaos around him, Jelly Roll discovered comfort in rap music, Southern gospel, and country storytelling — sounds that shaped his unique music style.
He often says he is “a product of a broken home, but not a broken spirit.”
⭐ Parents, Family & Upbringing
Jelly Roll has spoken openly about his childhood:
Father — A hustler but supportive
His father, a meat salesman and gambler, battled addiction but always encouraged Jelly Roll’s musical talent. He introduced him to classic country artists like:
- George Jones
- Waylon Jennings
- Johnny Cash
Mother — Struggled with mental illness
His mother’s health challenges forced Jelly Roll to grow up fast. Many of his emotional songs, including “Save Me”, reflect his pain watching her suffer.
Siblings
He has multiple siblings, but he keeps their lives private.
⭐ Arrests & Time in Jail
As a teenager, Jelly Roll was arrested several times for:
- Drug possession
- Robbery
- Probation violations
His biggest turning point came when he learned he had become a father while serving a sentence. The moment he held his newborn daughter changed his life.
He decided to never return to jail again.
⭐ Music Career: From Mixtapes to Grammy Winner
2005–2010: Rap mixtape years
Jelly Roll began selling mixtapes from his car in Nashville. His early work was fully rap-oriented, influenced by:
- Three 6 Mafia
- UGK
- Tech N9ne
He slowly built a loyal underground fan base.
2010–2016: Breakthrough collaborations
He collaborated with artists like:
- Lil Wyte
- Struggle Jennings
- Haystak
Songs like “Pop Another Pill” and “Creature” brought him regional fame.
2017–2020: Genre blending
Jelly Roll began mixing rap with country and rock, a combination fans loved.
Hits from this period include:
- “Save Me”
- “Bottle and Mary Jane”
- “Fall in the Fall”
2021–2024: Mainstream success
Jelly Roll exploded into the mainstream with:
- “Son of a Sinner”
- “Need a Favor”
- “Save Me (ft. Lainey Wilson)”
- “Wild Ones”
He won:
- CMT Awards
- iHeartRadio Awards
- A Grammy in 2024
His acceptance speech — where he said, “Change is possible — I am proof” — captivated the USA.
⭐ Wife: Bunnie XO
Jelly Roll is married to Bunnie DeFord, popularly known as Bunnie XO, a podcaster and entertainer.
She is credited with:
- Helping him leave the streets
- Supporting his music career
- Helping raise his daughter
- Creating his podcast/YouTube presence
Their relationship is a big part of Jelly Roll’s public life and U.S. search interest.
⭐ Children
Jelly Roll has two children:
- Bailee (daughter)
- Noah (son)
He frequently speaks about fatherhood being the reason he turned his life around.
⭐ Net Worth 2025
As of 2025, Jelly Roll’s estimated net worth is $6–8 million, with income sources from:
- Music streaming
- Tours and concerts
- Merchandise
- Brand partnerships
- YouTube revenue
- Documentary deals
His U.S. tour sales consistently sell out.
⭐ Social Media Accounts
- Instagram: @jellyroll615
- YouTube: Jelly Roll
- TikTok: @officialjellyroll
- Facebook: Jelly Roll
⭐ Frequently Asked Questions (SGE Boost)
Is Jelly Roll married?
Yes, he is married to Bunnie XO.
What is Jelly Roll’s real name?
Jason Bradley DeFord.
How tall is Jelly Roll?
He is approximately 5 ft 7 in.
Where is Jelly Roll from?
Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
What genre of music does Jelly Roll make?
Country, rap, and rock fusion.
Why is he called Jelly Roll?
It was a childhood nickname given to him for his size and love for food.
⭐ Final Summary
Jelly Roll represents redemption, resilience, and hope. From battling addiction and poverty to winning Grammy awards, he has become one of America’s most beloved and influential artists. His sincerity, emotional lyrics, and powerful story continue to inspire millions across the United States.