Country star Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, made headlines recently with a heartwarming gesture in West Valley, Utah. While passing through the area on his way to Salt Lake City, where he was set to kick off his “Beautifully Broken” tour, Jelly Roll spotted a lemonade stand run by a group of kids. Deciding to stop and support their small business, the country singer not only bought some lemonade but also left the children with an unforgettable memory.
The kids, who were selling lemonade for just 50 cents a cup, were in for a big surprise when Jelly Roll ordered five drinks for everyone in his car. The total came to a modest $2.50, but instead of handing over a few dollars, Jelly Roll stunned the young entrepreneurs by giving them nearly $700 and telling them to keep the change.
“You keep that tip, okay baby? You go buy you something really nice, alright, because you worked hard.”
Country star Jelly Roll stopped by a lemonade stand. Photo courtesy Wendy Gardunio
The children’s reaction to Jelly Roll’s generosity was priceless—they were thrilled and shocked by the unexpected act of kindness. Wendy Gardunio, the mother of one of the children, shared her excitement on social media. She posted photos of her daughter and her cousins with the singer, along with a snapshot of the money he had given them. “Who would have thought that we would run into Jelly Roll in West Valley? And for him to be so generous with giving them almost $700,” Wendy wrote, expressing her gratitude and amazement.
This generous act isn’t out of character for Jelly Roll. The musician has a history of giving back to communities and causes close to his heart. Recently, he announced that all net profits from pre-orders of his upcoming album, “Beautifully Broken,” would be donated to organizations that support mental health and addiction recovery efforts. The album, which is set to be released on October 11, will feature singles like “I Am Not Okay” and “Liar,” as well as the anthem “Get By,” which was recently chosen as the 2024 College Football Season anthem by ESPN.
Country star Jelly Roll left a nearly $700 tip for children holding a lemonade stand. Photo courtesy Wendy Gardunio
Jelly Roll has always been vocal about the intention behind his music. In an interview with The New York Times Magazine, he shared, “I’m looking for songs that have a purpose. When I go to put out a song under the name Jelly Roll, I think to myself, Why? Because for the first time in my life, it has nothing to do with a financial decision, Jelly Roll said.
I’m well past putting out anything for money. So, now, it really is a why.”
Beyond his music, Jelly Roll is also dedicated to supporting youth in need. Earlier this month, he helped fund Nashville’s new Youth Campus for Empowerment, a project aimed at giving underprivileged kids a better chance in life. Reflecting on his own troubled past, Jelly Roll said, “Make these kids feel loved and give them a chance in life. A lot of these kids are victims of their circumstances. This is a really great chance to change things.”
Jelly Roll’s act of kindness in West Valley is just one example of the compassion that has become a hallmark of his career. Whether through his music or his charitable efforts, Jelly Roll continues to touch lives and inspire others with his generosity and heart.
