Jelly Roll: Bio, Wife, Weight Loss Journey, Net Worth (2025)

Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, has become one of the most authentic voices in modern American music. His sound is hard to define. It blends Southern hip-hop, country, rock, and gospel into something truly original. 

But his story isn’t just about music. It’s about pain, redemption, love, and change. He’s more than a performer. He’s a survivor who turned his scars into songs. 

Over the years, Jelly Roll has grown from a struggling rapper to a genre-crossing star. His honesty about addiction, incarceration, and healing has made him relatable. His music speaks to those who feel left behind. It comforts the broken and gives hope to the hopeless.

Early Life

Jelly Roll was born on December 4, 1984, in Antioch, a suburb of Nashville, Tennessee. He grew up in a tough environment. His father was a meat salesman and a bookie. His mother struggled with addiction and mental health. Life wasn’t easy. 

By his teens, Jelly Roll was already in trouble. He spent time in and out of juvenile detention. Later, he faced multiple stints in jail for drug-related charges. But through it all, he held on to music. It was his outlet. His salvation.

Jelly Roll began his music career in the early 2000s. He started as a Southern rapper, working with local artists. He gained attention with mixtapes like Gamblin’ on the White Boy and Therapeutic Music. Jelly collaborated with Lil Wyte, Haystak, and Struggle Jennings. The themes in his songs were always raw. They talked about addiction, trauma, and redemption. Even when he wasn’t famous, his music hit home with fans going through the same struggles.

Jelly Roll’s Wife

Jelly Roll met Bunnie XO, real name Bunnie DeFord, in 2015. She was working in Las Vegas when they crossed paths. The spark was instant. He proposed on stage during a show. They got married the same night at a Vegas courthouse. Their love story is unconventional, but it works. Bunnie stood by him through his ups and downs. She became more than a wife. She became his best friend and biggest supporter.

Bunnie XO is also a stepmom to Jelly Roll’s two children—Bailee Ann and Noah Buddy. Bailee, in particular, has become a major part of Jelly Roll’s public life. In 2017, he and Bunnie gained full custody of Bailee. The bond between stepmother and stepdaughter is strong. Bunnie even hosts a podcast called “Dumb Blonde,” where she shares their life and experiences. They’re open about their past and their future.

In 2024, the couple revealed they are undergoing IVF to try to have a child together. They’ve shared the journey with fans. Not for attention, but to inspire others. Their openness about fertility struggles has resonated with many couples. It shows their strength, their hope, and their deep desire to grow their family.

The Incredible Weight Loss Journey

Jelly Roll has battled with weight issues for years. At one point, he weighed around 540 pounds. He faced both physical and mental challenges because of it. But in 2023, he decided to make a serious change. He began exercising regularly. He started with simple walks. Jelly added time in the sauna and cold plunges to boost his health.

By early 2025, Jelly Roll had lost nearly 200 pounds. His transformation is inspiring. He didn’t do it for fame. He did it to live longer. To feel better. To be there for his family. He says he wants to lose another 100 pounds. He dreams of skydiving in Sweden. And he wants to be around to see his kids grow up.

Jelly Roll’s Net Worth and Rising Success

With his crossover success, Jelly Roll’s net worth has grown quickly. By 2025, estimates put his wealth in the multi-million dollar range. Touring, music sales, brand deals, and merchandise all contribute. But he’s not flashy. He invests in his family, his health, and his community.

He has received awards from CMT, iHeartRadio, and other major platforms. He’s respected across genres. He’s performed at the Grand Ole Opry, but also in hip-hop venues. His versatility is rare. His humility is even rarer.

Giving Back and Speaking Out

In 2024, Jelly Roll testified before Congress about the dangers of fentanyl. He spoke about how drugs ruined lives, including his own. He asked lawmakers to take action. His voice mattered. It wasn’t polished. It was real.

He often visits prisons, juvenile centers, and recovery programs. He tells people they can change. That they’re not alone. His music and message go hand in hand. He’s not just a singer. He’s a symbol of second chances.

Conclusion

Jelly Roll’s story is about more than fame. It’s about finding purpose in pain. About rising after every fall. He’s a man who made mistakes but never gave up. He’s a husband, a father, an artist, and an advocate. And most of all, he’s real. In a world full of filters, Jelly Roll is refreshingly raw. And that’s why people love him.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Who is Jelly Roll?

Jelly Roll is the stage name of Jason Bradley DeFord, an American singer, rapper, and songwriter. He’s known for blending hip-hop, country, rock, and soul into a unique musical style. He first gained recognition in the underground rap scene and later rose to mainstream fame with hits like Son of a Sinner and Need a Favor.

What is Jelly Roll’s real name?

His real name is Jason Bradley DeFord.

How old is Jelly Roll?

Jelly Roll was born on December 4, 1984, which makes him 40 years old as of 2025.

Where is Jelly Roll from?

He is from Antioch, a neighborhood in Nashville, Tennessee.

Who is Jelly Roll’s wife?

Jelly Roll is married to Bunnie XO, whose real name is Bunnie DeFord. She is a podcast host, model, and internet personality. They got married in 2016 after a spontaneous proposal and courthouse wedding in Las Vegas.

Does Jelly Roll have kids?

Yes. Jelly Roll has two children from previous relationships: Bailee Ann and Noah Buddy DeFord. He and Bunnie XO have custody of Bailee, and she plays an important role in their lives. As of 2024, Jelly Roll and Bunnie are trying for a baby through IVF.