Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, is more than just a chart-topping musician. He’s a living testament to personal transformation. From his roots in Nashville’s gritty streets to filling arenas across the nation, his journey is one of redemption, resilience, and raw emotional expression. At the heart of his evolution lies a structured and emotionally powerful Jelly Roll pre show ritual—a set of habits that prepare him spiritually, mentally, and physically to give his audience an unforgettable performance.
Spiritual Grounding: Starting with Prayer and Connection
Before every performance, Jelly Roll begins with what he calls a “moment of alignment.” He and his crew form a circle backstage and engage in group prayer. This isn’t just a routine—it’s a heartfelt moment of spiritual grounding. He credits this with helping to shift the energy of the room and bringing everyone into a shared emotional space.
“That prayer connects us,” Jelly Roll once said in an interview. “It reminds us why we’re doing this—for the fans, for healing, for truth.”
This ritual emphasizes humility, gratitude, and intentionality. For an artist who has worn pain on his sleeve, centering himself before walking onstage is more than tradition—it’s emotional survival.
The Power of Love: Sharing a Moment with Bunnie XO
No show begins without a kiss shared between Jelly Roll and his wife, Bunnie XO. Their relationship is more than just romance—it’s a rock-solid foundation that fuels his mental peace. Bunnie, a constant presence on tour, supports his artistic and personal evolution.
This small act—simple yet profound—serves as a reminder of his roots and the love that has helped him grow.
“She reminds me who I am, no matter where I’m going,” he often says.
Their connection is deeply tied to his identity, and honoring that bond before each performance keeps him grounded.
Mindfulness and Breathwork: Centering the Chaos
The adrenaline before a performance can overwhelm even the most seasoned artist. For Jelly Roll, incorporating mindfulness and controlled breathing techniques into his Jelly Roll pre show ritual helps calm his nerves and sharpen his focus.
He uses deep-breathing exercises and short periods of meditation to center his mind. This approach allows him to control anxiety, embrace the moment, and pour his authentic self into every note.
“It’s like stepping into battle, and your weapon is presence.”
Nutrition and Clean Eating: Fueling the Body Right
As someone who has struggled with weight and health issues in the past, Jelly Roll now treats his body like the vessel it is. Over the past year, he has lost over 100 pounds, thanks to a major lifestyle change and clean-eating practices.
His favorite pre-show snack? A banana topped with Manuka honey, Stevia, and dark chocolate shavings.
This combination gives him:
- A clean energy boost
- Antioxidant support
- Natural sugar for sustained energy
He also opts for grilled or baked Nashville hot chicken—without the oil or batter—to keep his protein intake high.
Jelly Roll’s transformation isn’t just physical—it’s psychological. Taking control of his diet symbolizes taking control of his life. And it plays a crucial part in his Jelly Roll pre show ritual to ensure every performance is delivered with strength and energy.
The Wellness Tools: Sauna and Cold Plunge
During his Beautifully Broken Tour, Jelly Roll added two unique tools to his backstage routine:
- A two-seater infrared sauna
- A cold plunge tub
This combination of hot and cold therapy is crucial for:
- Reducing inflammation
- Improving circulation
- Accelerating muscle recovery
- Releasing mental stress
“If I’m not at 100 percent, I can’t give the fans the experience they deserve,” he explained.
These wellness tools now form a consistent part of his Jelly Roll pre show ritual, ensuring he steps on stage fully rejuvenated.
Mental Visualization: Seeing the Show Before It Happens
Mental preparation is a key component of the Jelly Roll pre show ritual. Before stepping on stage, he mentally visualizes the entire show:
- The energy of the crowd
- The emotional moments in the set
- The message he wants to leave behind
This isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention. He rehearses not only with his band but within his mind. That internal run-through allows him to step on stage with confidence and emotional clarity.
Avoiding Negativity: Protecting His Mental Space
Jelly Roll is deliberate about avoiding conflict, bad energy, or distractions before a show. His team knows that backstage is a sacred space.
Phones are minimized. Media is avoided. Arguments are nonexistent.
“The vibe backstage has to be holy,” he once said.
This emotional buffer zone helps him stay laser-focused on his purpose—healing through music.
Dressing with Intention: The Armor of the Stage
Clothes may not make the man, but for Jelly Roll, they’re part of the mindset. He chooses his outfit deliberately—not for fashion, but for function and identity.
His signature look often includes dark colors, symbolic of his past, and bold accessories that reflect his artistic edge.
“Every piece I wear means something to me,” he’s said. It becomes his armor—both physical and psychological—as he steps into the emotional fire of performance.
The Team Dynamic: Brotherhood and Loyalty
His pre-show environment is a tight-knit circle of loyalty and trust. Long-time crew members, musicians, and his tour family all play a part in his success.
They know his rhythm, respect his rituals, and contribute to a stable and loving environment.
That support system ensures there are no surprises. Everyone operates in sync—creating a buffer from the chaos of the road.
Reflection and Gratitude: A Moment Before the Music
Just before walking out under the lights, Jelly Roll takes one last moment to himself. He says a personal prayer—not just for the show, but for the people watching it.
He prays for the audience to find comfort, strength, and connection in the music.
This humble pause is where his purpose aligns with his performance. It’s the emotional anchor of the Jelly Roll pre show ritual.
Conclusion
Jelly Roll’s pre-show ritual isn’t just preparation—it’s a personal statement. From spiritual prayer and emotional bonding to clean nutrition and wellness practices, every step reflects his evolution from struggle to strength. These rituals are more than backstage routines—they’re powerful reflections of purpose, growth, and gratitude. For fans, understanding this side of Jelly Roll offers a deeper appreciation of not just the music, but the man behind it.
Discover the ritual that powers Jelly Roll’s raw energy.
