During a recent podcast appearance, musician Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, shared his struggles with mental health while on tour in Australia. The 40-year-old artist expressed feelings of anxiety and isolation, revealing that he was “falling apart” during his performances, which took place from October 25 to November 4, 2023.
On the podcast “No Filter with Kate Langbroek,” recorded in Australia, Jelly Roll described his mental state as the worst he had experienced in a long time. “I’m doing the worst mentally I’ve done in a long time,” he stated. The distance from home exacerbated his feelings of distress, leading to a profound sense of isolation as he navigated the tour without the usual support systems.
Six shows were scheduled throughout Australia, but Jelly Roll had to cancel his upcoming concert in Auckland, New Zealand, set for November 8, due to illness. The decision was not made lightly, as he mentioned in an Instagram post that he takes pride in performing and has rarely missed shows in the past decade. “I’ve done everything I can. I just can’t shake it. It breaks my heart,” he wrote.
Jelly Roll explained that his physical health issues, particularly gastrointestinal distress, were impacting his mental well-being. “When my stomach’s not right, nothing’s right. My mind’s not right. Everything. I’m just not thinking clear,” he admitted. This combination of physical and mental challenges contributed to his overwhelming desire to return home.
The artist also highlighted his feelings of isolation during the tour. “I’m having to be super isolated. I don’t like it,” he remarked, noting that he spent significant time alone in his hotel room. “I miss my family a ton,” he added, emphasizing the emotional toll of being away from loved ones.
To cope with his anxiety, Jelly Roll has been practicing breathing techniques. Yet, he acknowledged that these methods have not completely alleviated his discomfort. “Everybody wants to go home when they’re sick. That’s just in us,” he said. The combination of his physical ailments and mental strain led him to seek comfort in the familiarity of home.
It is worth noting that Jelly Roll’s recent international performances mark a significant milestone in his career. Previously, he faced travel restrictions due to a criminal record that includes felony convictions for drug charges and aggravated robbery. In a 2024 Interview magazine feature with Jon Bon Jovi, he remarked on the challenges of international travel, stating, “It’s funny, America has finally agreed to let me leave and give me a passport, but some countries won’t let me come because of my felonies.”
Despite these challenges, Jelly Roll’s commitment to his fans remains strong. He expressed his hope to overcome these obstacles in the future, focusing on healing and returning to the stage when he is ready. As he continues to navigate these personal struggles, Jelly Roll’s openness about mental health serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing such issues in the music industry and beyond.
