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Jelly Roll at Faster Horses Festival: A Preview

By Clarissa Darling on June 26, 2024

In the middle of summer, on the idyllic grounds of Michigan’s Faster Horses Festival, the stage is set for a performance that promises to be as raw and real as the man behind the mic—Jelly Roll. Known for his soul-baring lyrics and a voice that carries the weight of lived experiences, Jelly Roll is not just a performer; he’s a storyteller whose music resonates with the heartaches and triumphs of life.

File Photo: Jelly Roll performs at the Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville, IN 2024. (Photo Credit: Chris Shaw)

Jason Bradley DeFord, better known by his stage name Jelly Roll, is a testament to the power of redemption and the transformative nature of music. Born on December 4, 1984, in Antioch, Tennessee, Jelly Roll’s early life was marred by challenges that would shape his artistry. From a tumultuous childhood to brushes with the law, his path was anything but linear. Yet, it’s this very journey from the streets to the stage that infuses his songs with authenticity.

Jelly Roll’s music is a melting pot of genres, blending hip hop, country, and Southern rock into a sound that’s uniquely his. His breakout singles “Son of a Sinner” and “Need a Favor” catapulted him to mainstream prominence in 2022, and since then, he’s been on an upward trajectory, collecting accolades like three CMT Music Awards in 2023 and a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist.

Attendees at the Faster Horses Festival can expect Jelly Roll to deliver a performance that’s both intimate and explosive, one that’ll have them nodding in agreement one moment and raising their fists in solidarity the next. His setlist will likely span his discography, offering a mix of gritty anthems and heartfelt ballads that showcase his versatility as an artist.

The festival itself, set to take place from July 19-21, is more than just a music event; it’s a celebration of the spirit of Michigan summers, complete with camping, camaraderie, and, of course, country music’s hottest acts. Jelly Roll, with his undeniable presence and raw emotional energy, is sure to be a highlight of this year’s lineup.

So, if you’re planning to head to Brooklyn, MI, next month, prepare for a performance that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Jelly Roll is not just playing music; he’s sharing a piece of his journey, and it’s one you won’t want to miss.