On October 4, 2024, the inaugural Country Calling Festival in Maryland set the stage for a remarkable performance, headlined by the talented Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord. The 39-year-old artist took the spotlight, beaming with joy as he belted out his popular tracks such as “Need A Favor” and “Save Me.” Dressed in his signature style—a casual black tee and pants adorned with eye-catching chunky silver jewelry—Jelly Roll captivated audiences with his engaging stage presence. His passion for music and connection with fans made the event truly unforgettable.
The festival was not only a platform for showcasing his musical prowess but also an opportunity to highlight his personal growth. As he joined fellow artist Riley Green to perform their collaboration “Copenhagen in a Cadillac,” the moment served as a reminder of the profound changes he has embraced over recent years.
Jelly Roll’s physical transformation has been nothing short of inspiring. At one point, he weighed over 500 pounds, but through dedication and tenacity, he has successfully shed nearly 200 pounds over the years. Most recently, he announced a weight loss of an additional 70 pounds since early 2024. The journey began in earnest in late 2016 when he made the conscious decision to reclaim control over his life and health.
He openly shares the struggles he faced along the way, acknowledging that it was not an easy path. “It wasn’t a fast journey; it was actually quite slow,” he admitted, emphasizing the myriad challenges he confronted during his transformation. Balance became a critical aspect of his life, especially as he navigated the demands of being an artist on the road. Jelly Roll cited “water and sleep” as key components of his success, showing that sometimes the simplest solutions can yield the most significant benefits.
Through his candid revelations, Jelly Roll expressed a desire to break free from the limitations of his past. “I’ve been obese since I was a small child,” he shared, stating that he knew only a life filled with food-related struggles. His aspirations now extend beyond music; he longs to embrace thrilling experiences like skydiving, bungee jumping, and riding roller coasters. These dreams reflect a yearning for a wholly lived life and a healthy relationship with food—an essential aspect of his ongoing journey toward well-being.
Recently, Jelly Roll marked another milestone by running the 2 Bears 5K race in Los Angeles in May 2024. During an interview, he expressed a sense of accomplishment, noting how he couldn’t even walk a mile when he first began his fitness journey. The overwhelming support and motivation he received from fellow participants—and even witnessing one runner don a bear suit—highlighted the communal spirit of pursuing health and fitness.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Jelly Roll is setting his sights higher, declaring his ambition to run a half marathon in 2025. He recognizes that achieving such a feat signifies more than just physical capability; it reflects his overall resilience. His candidness about his struggles with overeating and drinking serves as a reminder that setbacks are part of the journey—but they don’t define it.
Family also plays a central role in Jelly Roll’s narrative. He is the proud father of two children, Bailee Ann and Noah Buddy, from previous relationships and is married to podcaster Bunnie XO. As they contemplate expanding their family, he is reminded of the importance of leading a healthier life to be there for his children. He passionately remarked on a recent podcast, “I’ve got to see this kid into college,” emphasizing a newfound commitment to longevity and quality of life.
Jelly Roll’s inspiring journey of transformation encapsulates the complexities of healing, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. His story resonates beyond the stage, serving as a beacon of hope for many facing similar struggles. By embracing change and wholeheartedly pursuing his dreams, he demonstrates that it is never too late to redefine oneself and live life to the fullest. Through his music and personal narrative, Jelly Roll has become an emblem of resilience, motivating others to embark on their paths to self-improvement.