Why Jelly Roll Discovered ‘Solace’ Through Court-Ordered Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings at 14
By Website Content Manager
Jelly Roll’s new album Beautifully Broken was released on October 11, 2024.
Jelly Roll is opening up about the experiences that shaped his new album Beautifully Broken.
During an appearance on SiriusXM’s The Highway with host Ania Hammar, the 39-year-old “Need a Favor” singer discussed how his time in Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous inspired his song “I Am Not Okay.” The emotional impact of the track and others left Hammar in tears.
“Oh goodness. I don’t fully remember my first real meeting because I was court-ordered to attend at around 14, so it’s not as vivid as it should be,” Jelly admitted.
“However, I definitely recall the first time I found solace in those rooms and the moment I was introduced to this concept,” he continued. “I’ve taken so much from those meetings.”
He further explained that these experiences motivated him to improve his life, stating that he had “never been more inspired than when leaving an Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meeting.”
“I believe everyone should attend one, even if you’ve never had a drink in your life,” he remarked. “There’s something valuable in them; the good meetings are like great theater. They’ll make you listen, learn, laugh, and cry.”
Those meetings played a significant role in helping Jelly craft the song, allowing him to weave it through lyrical storytelling—a process he particularly enjoys.
“‘You hear how honest it was?’ I’m all about the lyrics,” he shared. “Storytelling and narrative-driven songs have always been my favorites.”
The new album also includes singles like “Liar” and “Get By,” the latter of which was recently chosen by ESPN as the anthem for the 2024 College Football Season. In this song, he reflects on overcoming life’s challenges and the importance of rising again when you fall.
His message was further emphasized with the release of the album, as all net profits from pre-orders in his U.S. web store will be donated to organizations that support those struggling with mental health issues and addiction. Jelly mentioned in an Instagram video that fans have already raised $850,000 for this cause.
In an interview with The New York Times Magazine, the singer expressed his desire to be intentional with all his new projects. “I’m looking for songs that have a purpose,” Jelly shared with the publication. “When I prepare to release a song under the name Jelly Roll, I always ask myself, ‘Why?’”