Jelly Roll, the country star known for his deeply personal lyrics and powerful storytelling, is back with a new album titled Beautifully Broken, set to release on October 11 via BBR Music Group/Republic Records. The announcement, made on August 23, has fans eagerly anticipating the new project, which promises to be a profound exploration of the human experience. Along with the album announcement, Jelly Roll (real name Jason DeFord) dropped his latest single, “Get By,” a track that encapsulates his resilience and determination to overcome life’s challenges.
An Anthem for College Football and a Message of Hope
“Get By” has already garnered significant attention, having been chosen as the anthem for the 2024 College Football Season by ESPN. The song is a gospel-tinged reflection on life’s hardships and the will to persevere. With lyrics like “I light every bridge I see, yeah, just to watch it burn / If you’d seen all the hell I’ve seen, it’d make your stomach turn,” Jelly Roll offers listeners a raw and honest look into his struggles. The single serves as a powerful reminder that, no matter how many times life knocks you down, there is always a way to get back up.
Jelly Roll’s dedication to his fans and his cause is further exemplified by his decision to donate all net profits from pre-orders of Beautifully Broken in his U.S. web store to organizations that support mental health and addiction recovery. This move aligns with Jelly Roll’s ongoing commitment to using his platform to make a positive impact on those who are struggling, a cause close to his heart.
A Purpose-Driven Album
In an interview with The New York Times Magazine, Jelly Roll discussed the intentionality behind his music. He emphasized that, at this point in his career, financial gain is no longer a motivating factor for him. Instead, Jelly Roll focuses on creating music that has a purpose and can offer solace and understanding to those who listen.
“I’m looking for songs that have a purpose,” Jelly Roll shared. “When I go to put out a song under the name Jelly Roll, I think to myself, Why? Because for the first time in my life, it has nothing to do with a financial decision. I’m well past putting out anything for money. So, now, it is a why.” One of the standout tracks on the upcoming album, “Winning Streak,” was inspired by a real-life story that Jelly Roll witnessed firsthand. He explained that the song was born out of an experience in an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, where an old-timer’s words resonated deeply with him: “Nobody came in here on a winning streak.” This phrase not only shaped the song but also reflects Jelly Roll’s understanding of the struggles many people face, including his journey with substance abuse.
Looking Ahead
With the release of Beautifully Broken, Jelly Roll continues to solidify his place as an artist who is unafraid to tackle difficult topics and share his personal experiences. The album promises to be a deeply moving collection of songs that will resonate with fans old and new. As Jelly Roll embarks on his headline tour, aptly named after the album, fans can expect an emotional and unforgettable experience that underscores the importance of resilience, hope, and the healing power of music.