Jelly Roll Says He’d Leave Country Music Behind If He Felt God Was Calling Him Elsewhere: ‘Y’all Will Never See Me Again’
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Speaking backstage at the Grand Ole Opry, the Grammy-winning artist revealed he’s ‘deep in therapy’ as he works out what comes next in his career.
Jelly Roll is leaving open the possibility of stepping away from country music entirely.
The Grammy-winning artist recently shared that if he believes God is leading him toward a different calling, he would be willing to walk away from the music industry — even if that meant disappearing from the public eye.
The singer, whose real name is Jason DeFord, made the revelation during a previously recorded conversation with Kelly Sutton of “Y’all Access Radio.” The interview took place backstage at the Grand Ole Opry in March and was released on Sept. 13.
Reflecting on everything he has accomplished, Jelly Roll said he feels he has already achieved many of the goals he once had for his career.
“Everything that Jason or Jelly Roll wanted to do in the music business, I’ve done now, so at this point, I really need to go talk to God and see if he wants me to stick around, or what he wants me to do next,” he said.
He explained that his next chapter could potentially have nothing to do with music.
“If God tells me to go work at a homeless shelter in Paducah, Ky., I’m outta here, you know what I’m saying? Y’all will never see me again,” Jelly Roll said. He went on to reflect on the opportunities he has received, including Grammys, ACM Awards, CMAs and becoming a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
The Nashville-based performer has come a long way from the difficulties of his younger years and has established himself as a major name in country music. His well-known songs include “Son of a Sinner” and “Need a Favor.”
Still, Jelly Roll said he is taking time to look inward and determine what direction his life should take next.
“I just got to go do a little bit of work on myself to make sure that I’m all the way ready,” he said. “I’m completely sober, though. I’m clear-headed, and I’m deep in therapy, I’m deep in my Bible, but I think that I got to separate from the chaos of the business for me to really hear what God wants to do for me next.”
His comments come after a particularly eventful period that included significant professional achievements as well as developments in his personal life.
The country star also faced political criticism during the summer after appearing as a guest host on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” During the appearance, he made jokes about President Donald Trump’s weight, fitness and approval ratings.
“Well, Mr. President, from one fat pig to another, take it from me that physical fitness is very important. And trust me, you’ll be happy to see your p—- again,” he joked.
Jelly Roll later rejected the idea that the appearance meant he had suddenly embraced liberal politics.
“Sure, I lean left on some things,” he said. “But like most folks, I’m pretty down the middle. I am a Christian. I am a country music singer. I’m a farmer. I’m a bow hunter.”