For the first time in 20 years, an Oregon prison hosts a live music performance by Jelly Roll.
As a teenager, the Grammy-nominated singer was arrested multiple times and served time in prison for aggravated robbery.
Jelly Roll just wants to "spread love."
This week, the country star and former inmate performed his music for the convicts at the maximum security Oregon State Penitentiary in Salem.
At the prison show, the Grammy-nominated star performed "Folsom Prison Blues," customizing it to "Oregon State Prison."
For the first time in 20 years, music has been brought to the prison yard, Jelly Roll announced to the gathered prisoners.
The "Save Me" singer wrote in an Instagram caption, "Spreading love is just what I'm trying to do."
He revealed that he composed his first tune while enclosed within the walls. There is no greater satisfaction than returning behind the barrier and performing a melody for you all.
He encouraged us to put our passion for drawing, writing, poetry, and music into our lives as much as possible.
Cam Hanes, a famous bowhunter and friend of the singer, urged him to visit the prison after he had gone there himself.
"I was as excited as he was about it after our brief conversation. He shared an idea with me that I could join him next time and sing songs. I immediately agreed and we made it happen," Jelly Roll wrote about Monday's visit.
"Bringing light to a dark place felt so good. While I believe that if we commit crimes we should do our time and be held accountable for our actions, I also believe that every human deserves love, regardless of the decisions they have made."
Hanes was with Jelly Roll during the show.
"The show was amazing and these guys thoroughly enjoyed it," Hanes remarked.
Yesterday, I sang to the inmates and felt good about it. I remember being in a dark place and no one ever showing me any hope of changing my life's path. If one inmate was inspired to do better by my presence, it was worth my weight in gold to stop by and sing.
He thanked the prison staff for allowing him to perform, describing his visit as "chicken soup for the soul."
In his Instagram video, Roll stated that he had previously visited prisons, "but this one is unique."
"Cam and I came into the Penitentiary hoping to bless people and left feeling blessed," he wrote on Instagram.
After his performance, Jelly Roll remained at the prison to interact with inmates and sign autographs on the tickets issued for the concert.
"The singer was great, according to one inmate who met him," and "Another inmate said that after hearing 'Save Me' on the radio for the first time, they got clean that day."
The singer, who was arrested dozens of times as a teenager for dealing drugs and first went to jail at 14, also faced charges for shoplifting and aggravated robbery.
At 16, he was accused of robbery that included the use of a firearm.
"He stated in Billboard last year that he would never forget that the crime was heinous, even though he was a grown man looking back at a 16-year-old who made the worst decision of their life. Despite the potential harm, by some miracle, no one was hurt."
Jelly Roll stated to Planet Chronicle Digital last year that he wouldn't be the person he is today without the experiences he went through. He believes these experiences empowered him, gave him a voice, taught him about overcoming challenges, and the ability to change.
"For decades, I was a terrible person, but now I'm using music to help others and give back as much as I can. This reflects my past and my commitment to always reach back and make a positive impact."
entertainment
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