Jelly Roll goes back to jail but not as inmate: ‘My life truly changed’

In her teenage years, Jelly Roll had often been to prison for various crimes. However, this time, when he went back to jail, he did so to inspire.

This has been quite on display on Hands Up - the country musician's autobiographical track he performed inside California's Quentin Rehabilitation Center.

The emotional video opens with a voiceover reciting a heartfelt prayer while Roll enters the prison facility.

Then the clip shows the Grammy winner arriving at the jail's canteen, accompanied by musical instruments.

Much to the surprise of the inmates, Roll performed in front of them, drawing a rousing response.

Taking to Instagram, the musician weighed in on powerful moments he experienced that left a lasting impact.

“Truly one of the most special things I’ve ever had the opportunity to do,” he wrote.

"The moment my life truly changed is when I threw my hands up," he continued.

"I know a lot of folks will hear this and remember their ‘hands up’ moment as well and that is making this that much cooler for me.”

Roll, who once also served time and opened up about his troubled time, mused that going back to jail gave him a powerful jolt.

“I remember being in the same kind of place all these incarcerated guys are in and what it took for me to finally throw my hands up, to get to do this with them is beyond words for me."

Last but not least, the singer thanked the inmates and the prison staff.

“A thousand thank-yous to everyone involved, especially the guys in the facility, San Quinten and every single staff member."

Roll, in the end, joked, "This may be the best video of my career but maybe I’ve got recency bias lolol."