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Musician Jelly Roll’s Journey from Incarceration to Vatican Performance Praised as “Redemption Story”
The Today Show hosts celebrated singer Jelly Roll’s recent performance at the Vatican, highlighting his remarkable journey from a troubled past to a moment of international recognition. The September 15th episode featured a photo of the artist meeting Pope Leo XIV and a clip of his Vatican performance.
Host Carson Daly noted the singer’s extensive time spent incarcerated in his youth, calling his appearance at the Vatican “truly remarkable.” Co-host Savannah Guthrie echoed the sentiment, describing it as a “true redemption story.”
Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, performed alongside renowned artists like Andrea Bocelli and Pharrell Williams at a concert in St. Peter’s Square.
The event was part of the Jubilee Year and the World Meeting on Human Fraternity. The singer’s meeting with the Pope, documented in photos, and his sharing of a scripture verse online, resonated with fans who praised his unexpected path from prison to performing at one of the world’s most significant religious sites.
DeFord’s first brush with the law occurred at age 14, with charges ranging from drug possession and shoplifting to aggravated robbery. At 16, he was tried as an adult for aggravated robbery, spending over a year in jail and seven years on probation.
By 23, he was incarcerated again for drug dealing, but this period also marked a turning point as he earned his GED. He credits the birth of his daughter, Bailee Ann, while he was incarcerated, as a life-altering experience.
Following his release in 2008, DeFord dedicated himself to music. He started by selling mixtapes from his car, building a following in the rap community.
He eventually blended rap, country, and Southern rock influences, creating a unique sound reflecting his personal struggles. His lyrics about addiction, incarceration, and redemption connected with a growing fan base.
Hits like “Son of a Sinner” and “Need a Favor” brought him national recognition and award nominations.
Fans celebrated his Vatican performance online. One commented, suggesting both Jelly Roll and the Pope were surprised and impressed to meet each other, and that both are “saving souls.”
Actor Chase Stokes expressed pride in knowing DeFord, calling him “one of the best humans to walk this earth.” Another fan praised him for transforming his pain into “hope and healing and light, and grace and love.”