In this engaging conversation, Jelly Roll, a Multi-Grammy nominated singer and songwriter known for his advocacy on mental health, shares his journey from incarceration to inspiration. He opens up about his life's challenges, including the struggles of prison life and the profound impact of music in fostering change. Jelly Roll discusses the urgent fentanyl crisis and the need for empathy towards those affected. He also reflects on the transformative power of music, the intricacies of the music business, and his deep connection to his daughter that fuels his drive for redemption.
Jelly Roll's life experiences, including incarceration and fatherhood, shape his songwriting and deepen his connection with fans' emotional struggles.
The challenges of navigating the music industry highlight the importance of understanding one's worth to negotiate favorable recording terms.
Jelly Roll advocates for second chances, emphasizing compassion and support for those seeking redemption after adversity and addiction.
Deep dives
The Influence of Personal Experiences on Artistry
Artists often draw from their life experiences to create authentic and impactful music. For Jelly Roll, his past struggles and transformations serve as a powerful muse for his songwriting. He emphasizes that while his earlier life experiences provided a rich source of inspiration, his current position allows him to tap into a much wider range of human stories from others. The connection he feels to fans’ emotional struggles has become a guiding force, showing him the universal nature of pain and redemption.
Life Lessons from Incarceration
Jelly Roll’s time in jail proved to be a critical turning point in his life, where he confronted the realities of his choices through self-reflection. The birth of his daughter while incarcerated served as an eye-opener, motivating him to change his life for the better and to be a responsible father. This transformation highlights the importance of personal accountability and the deep desire to make meaningful changes, not just for himself, but for his family's future. His story demonstrates that from the darkest places can arise profound motivation to achieve redemption.
Navigating the Music Industry
Jelly Roll discusses the complexities of the music industry and how artists often grapple with the financial implications of recording deals. His insight reveals that while record labels can provide the funds necessary for production, the terms can often be unfavorable, trapping artists in a cycle of debt. He highlights the significance of understanding one's worth and leveraging that knowledge to negotiate better terms, retaining control over their art and financial future. By avoiding traditional pitfalls, he has managed to secure a more favorable position that allows him to thrive creatively and financially.
The Power of Second Chances
Jelly Roll advocates strongly for the idea of second chances, believing firmly in the potential for redemption beyond previous mistakes. He represents not just former criminals but anyone who has faced adversity and seeks a fresh start. His advocacy for those struggling with addiction and the consequences of poor decisions emphasizes a communal responsibility to support rather than condemn. He sees his own journey as a platform to inspire hope and promote understanding, urging society to view individuals through a lens of compassion.
The Healing Power of Music
Jelly Roll articulates how music can serve as a form of therapy, conveying emotions and experiences that resonate with listeners on deep levels. Throughout his career, he has received messages from fans who attribute their healing and recovery to the connection they've found in his songs. By sharing personal and vulnerable narratives through his music, he not only processes his own experiences but also creates a safe space for his audience. This relationship between artist and fan reaffirms the profound impact music has on mental health and emotional healing.
Mama didn’t raise no fool this week, folks; it’s Jelly Roll. Incarceration, the need to write music, and the Nobody Cries Alone Policy. Put on your shower-shoes and go for the heat package… it’s an all-new SmartLess.
Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of SmartLess ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode