Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
Jelly Roll revealed a striking gold cross necklace he received as a gift from John Carter Cash, the son of Johnny Cash.
On March 10, Jelly Roll officially takes the stage at the Grand Ole Opry for his induction. Ahead of the milestone event, he spoke with Opry host Kelly Sutton about the big night and shared that he would be wearing a meaningful piece of Johnny Cash’s jewelry to honor the late legend.
Jelly Roll revealed that John Carter Cash, Johnny Cash’s son, visited him backstage and personally gifted him a gold cross necklace from his father’s collection.
“He opened a box and said, ‘I have something of my father’s I think he’d want you to wear.’ It was Johnny Cash’s own cross necklace, his favorite piece of jewelry, and he thought I should wear it for the induction,” Jelly Roll said.
The gift carried deep significance for Jelly Roll, who has long felt a connection to Johnny Cash, admiring how the legendary singer navigated life’s challenges. Wearing a piece of Cash’s personal collection for such a landmark moment in his career was profoundly emotional for him.
“I’ve lived my life somewhere between rebellion and the grace of Jesus Christ, and I learned that from Johnny Cash,” Jelly Roll reflected. “He could be rowdy on stage—kicking lights, flipping off photographers—but he also did incredible work for God. I wear black because of him. This gift makes me emotional; my uncle even almost cried when he saw it.”
He also shared a lighter moment with John Carter Cash, discovering that he and Johnny Cash were the same height. Jelly Roll found humor in the coincidence but also imagined that the necklace’s cross pendant had rested close to both their hearts.
Jelly Roll described his induction as a full-circle moment. He first performed at the Opry on November 9, 2021, and has made a point of returning whenever possible. His invitation to join the historic institution came last fall during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, when Rogan surprised him with a video message from Craig Morgan personally welcoming him to the Opry family.
“Who would have imagined back then that I’d be here today, officially invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry? It’s an honor to welcome you to the family, brother,” said Morgan.
The unexpected moment left Jelly Roll visibly overwhelmed. He tossed aside his headphones, buried his face in his hands, and let the tears flow as the gravity of the announcement sank in.