On Tuesday (April 22), the Tennessee Board of Parole unanimously recommended that Governor Bill Lee consider pardoning Jelly Roll for his past convictions. The move could potentially allow the singer to travel internationally for performances. After a nearly two-hour session that included testimony from Nashville Sheriff Daron Hall and others, it is now up to Gov. Lee to make the final decision on the pardon. Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, expressed gratitude for the board’s decision after he shared with them his story of redemption through music, while highlighting his desire to inspire others facing similar challenges. “This was incredible,” Jelly Roll said of the board’s decision. “I pray this goes through. But today was special for me, regardless.” The singer’s criminal record has previously hindered his ability to perform overseas, but the potential pardon could remove legal barriers and open up new opportunities for him to share his uplifting musical message with his fans around the world. (Billboard)
