Jelly Roll Finds Healing and Harmony on His Nashville Farm

Jelly Roll might be living the dream as a country music superstar, but he says the real magic happens away from the spotlight—on his Nashville farm, surrounded by cows and a little slice of peace.

In a recent chat, Jelly Roll shared how his slice of rural paradise keeps him grounded, especially now that his career is soaring. The farm, he says, is more than just a fun fact—it's where he finds the calm he needs to dodge the chaos that comes with fame. "Of all the things I've done, having cows seems to be one of the most surprising to people," he joked. And yes, his beloved Hey Dude shoes have made an appearance out there, too. But beneath the humor, Jelly Roll credits the farm with giving him a real shot at a second chance—a daily reminder of how far he’s come.

Jelly Roll has always been open about his struggles, including battles with addiction and run-ins with the law from a young age. After spending years in and out of jail, he found sobriety and faith while behind bars. Reflecting on those dark times, he said, "I wouldn't be the man I am today if it wasn't for what I went through. It empowered me. It gave me my voice." There’s something poetic about trading a jail cell for a field of cows, right?

Now, he’s paying his good fortune forward in ways big and small. His latest shoe collaboration, called "Second Chances" with Hey Dude, is all about spreading that message. "Second chances have a domino effect that impacts not only one person’s life but lives beyond just that one person," he said. He believes change starts at home and then ripples out, just like his dad always said.

Jelly Roll is also making a mark as the first "Artist in Residence" on "American Idol," mentoring young hopefuls and sharing his hard-earned wisdom. Watching the contestants push themselves each week has been, in his words, "an incredible experience." He’s not shy about cheering them on—proud parent vibes included—and says the role has made him reflect on his own wild ride from troubled teen to chart-topper.

As he gears up to headline at Stagecoach and continues to inspire with both his music and his story, Jelly Roll is proof that even the most unlikely journeys can lead to peace, purpose, and maybe even a herd of cows.