Tennessee board recommends that governor pardon country star Jelly Roll

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Board of Parole on Tuesday recommended a pardon for country music star Jelly Roll, a Nashville native who has spoken openly about his criminal history and what it has taken to overcome it. The board’s action leaves the final decision on a pardon up to Gov. Bill Lee.
The board issued its nonbinding recommendation unanimously after a hearing that lasted about an hour and 45 minutes with several witnesses, including Nashville Sheriff Daron Hall, advocating for the 40-year-old musician named Jason DeFord. One board member recused themselves from voting.

The tattooed rapper-turned-country singer broke out in country with his 2023 album “Whitsitt Chapel” and crossover songs like “Need a Favor.” Focusing on songs about his redemption after spending time in juvenile detention facilities, Jelly Roll has won multiple CMT Awards, a CMA …