Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Jelly Roll (Jason Bradley DeFord) recently partnered with HeyDude on a co-designed limited-edition shoe inspired by the theme of the musician’s latest album, Beautifully Broken.
DeFord was raised in Nashville, TN. His father was a meat salesman and worked as a bookie on the side; his mother had a mental illness and addiction. From his teenage years into his 20s, the singer was arrested several times and spent time in jail for various charges/felonies. He earned his GED at the age of 23 while in prison.
Known for his “therapeutically-minded music” and fan connection, Jelly Roll “challenges his past while inspiring others through impactful storytelling both on and off stage to do the same.”
With its latest movement of “Dudes,” HeyDude reported in a media release that it has “expanded the meaning of being comfortable in your own shoes and is encouraging others to do the same. Together, HeyDude and Jelly Roll are empowering individuals to walk towards self-acceptance and a brighter future.”
The limited-edition white Wally Slip Canvas silhouette features a black skull design and gold crackle print on the outsole. As a gift with purchase, while supplies last, a vinyl copy of the Jelly Roll’s Beautifully Broken album is included.
“Jelly Roll is an inspiration to others and as a result, has become one of the most popular and versatile artists in the world,” said HeyDude Chief Marketing Officer Paul Nugent. “He is authentic to his core and embraces what it means to be a Dude. He’s a true creative visionary, collaborating on thoughtfully designed product that we know everyone, especially his fans, will love.”
To create a positive impact together, the brand and musician are partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Statistically, HedDude shared that “2o percent to 25 percent of young people served by Big Brothers Big Sisters have a parent or family member who is incarcerated. As part of the organization’s mission to create and support mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth, they provide step-up skills such as building resilience to young people.
“Through this partnership, the brand and musician bring to life their shared efforts to unlock potential in young people while providing positive mentorship to their lives,” continued HeyDude.
The long-term, global partnership between HeyDude and Jelly Roll will include new product drops, coordinated social media efforts and digital marketing.
Image courtesy HeyDude
