Jelly Roll opens up about his experience attending Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, a topic he has never discussed publicly before.
Jelly Roll’s Candid Interview
In a recent interview with The New York Times, the artist, known for his success on the Mainstream Rock Airplay and Country Airplay charts, delves into his unreleased song “Winning Streak,” featured on his upcoming album Beautifully Broken set for release in fall 2024. The song portrays his experience at an AA meeting, prompting questions about his struggles with alcohol addiction.
Personal Reflections
Jelly Roll shares that “Winning Streak” was inspired by a real-life story witnessed at an AA meeting, where he confronts his inner demons. Despite occasional indulgence in alcohol and marijuana, he has distanced himself from more harmful substances like cocaine and pain pills, acknowledging the difficulty of breaking free from addiction.
Attending AA meetings has been a crucial part of his journey, even though he does not consider himself a traditional “sober guy.” He values the support and wisdom shared in these meetings, choosing to listen and reflect without actively participating.
Public Revelation
For the first time, Jelly Roll publicly discusses his involvement in AA meetings, emphasizing his respect for those striving for complete sobriety. He prefers to keep this aspect of his life private to avoid overshadowing the efforts of others in the program.
Inspiration Behind the Music
Reflecting on the emotional impact of first-person storytelling in songs like James Taylor’s “Carolina in My Mind,” Jelly Roll explains how the experience at an AA meeting shaped the narrative of “Winning Streak.” The song captures the raw emotions and struggles faced by individuals on the path to recovery.
Upcoming Projects
Aside from his album release, Jelly Roll’s song “Get By” will feature in ESPN’s college football coverage, showcasing his diverse musical talents. With a series of headlining tour dates on the horizon, he continues to evolve as an artist and advocate for personal growth.
For the full interview with The New York Times, check out the video below.
FAQs
Q: How has Jelly Roll’s experience at AA meetings influenced his music?
A: Attending AA meetings has provided Jelly Roll with real-life stories and emotional depth that he incorporates into his music, adding authenticity to his lyrics.
Q: Why does Jelly Roll choose to keep his AA meetings private?
A: Jelly Roll respects the sanctity of the AA program and prefers not to overshadow the journeys of those striving for complete sobriety by sharing his own experiences publicly.
Credit: www.billboard.com
