This Rapper Bought Jelly Roll a Truck When He Was Struggling: ‘That’s My Dog’

Years before achieving mainstream stardom, Jelly Roll faced significant hardships that almost derailed his path. During a difficult financial period, a gesture of profound generosity from a fellow artist proved to be a turning point in his life.

In a recent interview with Taste of Country Nights, rapper Yelawolf shared insights into his long-standing bond with the country sensation. The two artists were neighbors in Tennessee, and Yelawolf witnessed firsthand the struggles the “Son of a Sinner” singer endured while trying to break into the industry. “I took him on tour with me occasionally, letting him hop on as an opening act,” Yelawolf recalled.

The situation was dire, as Yelawolf vividly described seeing Jelly Roll arrive at venues in a decommissioned police cruiser—complete with the original spotlight and lacking license plates. “When I returned to Nashville and saw he was truly at rock bottom, I gifted him a brand-new Chevrolet Silverado so he could provide reliable transportation for his family during the holidays. That’s my brother; he’s been family for years.”

Jelly Roll has remained transparent about his tumultuous past, including battles with substance abuse and periods of incarceration. His transformation from a struggling performer to a global superstar has been fueled by his dedication to his children, Bailee and Noah, and his long-term partnership with his wife, Bunnie Xo. Although the couple announced their separation and filed for divorce this past May, they remain committed to their plans to welcome a child via IVF.

Reflecting on their connection at a recent show on his “Little Ass Shed Tour,” Jelly Roll expressed his enduring affection for her, stating, “Bunnie and I are best friends and always will be. Thank you for ten wonderful years.”

Today, Jelly Roll’s trajectory is a testament to resilience. With three Grammy wins, a CMA Award, and a chart-topping album, Beautifully Broken, securing his place atop the Billboard 200, the artist has ascended far beyond the days when he was driving that old cop car.