For the first time in 20 years, live music echoed through the yard of the Oregon State Penitentiary, thanks to country music star Jelly Roll.

The artist, who has his own history of incarceration, performed for inmates with the goal of inspiring and spreading love through his music, something they have not enjoyed at the Salem facility for two decades, as Fox News reports.

Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, is no stranger to life behind bars. He shared with the inmates that his journey as a musician began while he was serving time, making the performance even more personal.

During the concert, he delivered a unique version of Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues," which he renamed "Oregon State Prison" for the occasion.

Encouragement To Perform Came from Friend

The idea to perform at the penitentiary came from a conversation with Jelly Roll's friend, Cam Hanes, a well-known figure in the outdoor sports world. After discussing the possibility of bringing music to the inmates, Jelly Roll became determined to make it happen. "I told him right then we was going to make it happen," Jelly Roll shared.

The event was not just a concert for the inmates; it was a moment of hope. Jelly Roll spoke openly about his belief in accountability but also emphasized the importance of showing compassion, even to those who have made serious mistakes. "Every human deserves love, no matter how bad of a decision they have made," he said during the performance.

Inspiring Inmates Through Music, Personal Stories

The country star's performance resonated with many of the inmates, some of whom found his music deeply moving. One inmate described Jelly Roll’s song "Save Me" as a turning point in their life, sharing that hearing the track helped them decide to get clean. After the show, Jelly Roll stayed to interact with the inmates, signing autographs and speaking with them individually.

Jelly Roll’s message to the inmates was clear: pursue your passions. He encouraged them to focus on their love for the arts, whether that be drawing, writing, poetry, or music. "If you love drawing...I just pray that you put that passion into it and live it as much as you possibly can," he advised.

Performer's Background Adds Depth to Show

Jelly Roll’s connection to the inmates runs deeper than just his music. He himself was incarcerated as a teenager, with his first arrest occurring at the age of 14. By 16, he was charged as an adult for aggravated robbery involving a firearm. Reflecting on his past, Jelly Roll expressed gratitude that his crimes didn’t result in anyone getting hurt.

During the performance, he didn’t shy away from discussing his troubled history. "I never want to overlook the fact that it was a heinous crime," he said, adding that his time in prison taught him invaluable lessons about overcoming adversity and changing for the better.

Jelly Roll Describes Experience As "Chicken Soup for the Soul"

Performing for the inmates wasn’t just meaningful for them. Jelly Roll admitted that the experience was profoundly moving for him as well. He described the visit as "chicken soup for the soul," and thanked the prison staff for allowing the performance to take place.

"It felt good to go love on these guys," Jelly Roll said, explaining that he hoped his presence could inspire even one inmate to change the direction of their life. "If one inmate was inspired to do better by my presence yesterday, it was worth my weight in gold to stop by and sing."

End Of 20-Year Live Music Drought

The concert was the first live music performance allowed in the prison yard in two decades. Jelly Roll’s performance seemed to bring a sense of light to a place often overshadowed by darkness. "It felt so good bringing a little light to such a dark place," he reflected after the show.

Hanes, who was instrumental in setting up the event, praised Jelly Roll’s performance. "What a show. Amazing. These guys enjoyed the show so much," Hanes commented, highlighting the positive impact the performance had on the inmates.

Connecting Past Experiences with Present Success

Jelly Roll made it clear that his past shaped the man he is today. He acknowledged that his time behind bars gave him a voice and taught him the importance of change. "I wouldn't be the man I am today if it wasn't for what I went through," he said, emphasizing how those experiences empowered him to help others through his music.

For Jelly Roll, the performance was more than just a concert; it was a way to give back and share the lessons he has learned. "I was a horrible human for decades, and to just be able to turn that around and give a message in the music and help people...is very indicative of where I came from."

Jelly Roll Leaves Feeling Blessed

As the event concluded, Jelly Roll expressed how meaningful the experience was for him. "I'm sure I speak for Cam and myself when I say we came into that penitentiary hoping to bless people and left feeling blessed." His words captured the mutual exchange of inspiration and hope that took place during his visit.

In conclusion, Jelly Roll’s return to the Oregon State Penitentiary brought not only music but also hope and encouragement to the inmates. The country star’s message of accountability, love, and the power of change resonated with many, leaving both the inmates and Jelly Roll himself touched by the experience.