Grammy-nominated country-rock musician Jelly Roll has sent shockwaves through the music industry. He announced an extended hiatus from live touring, revealing that he will be stepping away from the stage for up to two years.
The 41-year-old singer, whose legal name is Jason DeFord, shared the unexpected news during a recent concert at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Jelly Roll spoke directly to thousands of emotional concertgoers and explained that he needed dedicated time off from his career. He added that he wanted to prioritise his health and mental well-being.
A Lifetime Experience
Addressing the roaring crowd, the 'Need a Favor' hitmaker expressed deep gratitude for his meteoric rise to international stardom before the startling revelation.
'This has truly been a lifetime experience for me,' Jelly Roll told the crowd. 'And in a couple of nights, I go to Colorado Springs and do my last show for a year or two. I'm fixing to take some time off and heal. Thank you for the opportunity.'
The singer officially wrapped up his current slate of live dates on 30 July with a final performance at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs, leaving his official touring calendar empty for the foreseeable future.
Although the musician did not elaborate on the circumstances surrounding his need to heal, the announcement comes amidst a particularly tumultuous period in his personal life.
The Divorce from Bunnie Xo
Just two weeks before his Salt Lake City appearance, Jelly Roll finalised his divorce from author and podcaster Bunnie Xo, whose real name is Alisa DeFord.
The former couple, who tied the knot back in 2016, officially dissolved their nearly decade-long marriage on 17 July, following an initial court filing in mid-May citing irreconcilable differences.
Under their confidential settlement, both parties agreed to split property and finances amicably without public animosity.
Despite the high-profile separation, Jelly Roll has previously insisted that the former couple still maintain an enduring bond of mutual respect and friendship.
Speaking at a concert in June, the performer assured fans that Bunnie Xo would remain his 'best friend forever,' dismissing online speculation regarding infidelity and expressing sincere gratitude for their ten years together.
The emotional weight of navigating a public divorce alongside a demanding performance schedule appears to have taken its toll on the artist, prompting his decision to step back from public life.
Is This a Temporary Hiatus?
The hiatus brings a temporary conclusion to an intense period of live performances for the Nashville-born star. Over the past year, Jelly Roll maintained a punishing schedule, travelling continuously across North America whilst balancing his headlining The Little A Shed Tour alongside a co-headlining stadium tour with Post Malone.
While news of his pause has saddened devoted followers, fans have overwhelmingly voiced their support, praising his bravery in recognising his personal limits and choosing to focus on his long-term wellness.
Jelly Roll has teased a potential return to live music when the timing aligns. Before announcing his break, the singer revealed a grand ambition to perform as the inaugural act at Nashville's brand-new Nissan Stadium upon its opening in spring 2027.
Fans remain hopeful that this sabbatical will provide space for spiritual and emotional recovery. For now, the beloved musician is stepping away from the spotlight to focus entirely on personal renewal and well-earned recovery.
