The Meaning Behind Jelly Roll's Emotional Song "Save Me" Featuring Lainey Wilson

The Story Behind Jelly Roll's "Save Me"

Jelly Roll, an acclaimed country/hip hop artist, released his emotional song “Save Me” in 2021 featuring country singer Lainey Wilson. The raw lyrics and powerful delivery show Jelly Roll opening up about his struggles with addiction and mental health, making it a standout track on his album “Ballads of the Broken”.

Jelly Roll's Journey

Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, has been making country rap and hip hop blended music for over a decade. His ability to mix genres and incorporate lyrical storytelling has earned him critical and fan praise. However, behind the scenes, Jelly Roll was battling addictions to drugs and alcohol, suicidal thoughts, depression, and trauma from childhood abuse. Music was his outlet, but at times also his escape.

After hitting rock bottom multiple times, Jelly Roll has been sober for years now. He uses his platform to speak openly about mental health to try to help others struggling. "Save Me" is his most raw testament to those battles within himself to date.

Lainey Wilson's Influence

Lainey Wilson is a fast-rising country star who herself sings about overcoming adversity. Her 2022 album “Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’” mixes traditional instrumentation with her bold, from-the-heart lyrics. This combo has made Lainey a fan favorite in the country world.

Jelly Roll, also unafraid to challenge the status quo of the country genre while showing vulnerability, knew Lainey would perfectly complement “Save Me.” Her vocals on the chorus set the tone - two artists united through shared pains.

The Lyrics of "Save Me"

“Save Me” starts with simple piano chords as Jelly Roll speaks:

“As a child, I used to hide under the covers, afraid of the dark and afraid of my father’s belt that would often leave marks."

This glimpse into his traumatic childhood leads into the chorus from Lainey Wilson:

“So save me from myself, don't let me drown here all alone. I need you now, so come save me."

Jelly Roll proceeds to open up about his spiral into drug addiction and depression. He shares vivid examples like stealing money and pawning items to fund his next fix. The raw honesty in lines like:

“I've lied, I've stole, don't wanna live in this hole”

Remind the listener this is his confession to the darkest moments addiction took him. Lainey returns on the chorus, almost like the voice of redemption calling him back from that hole.

The Video's Message

The music video shows Jelly Roll leaving behind an empty bottle of alcohol and pills as he walks down railroad tracks. This symbolizes how addiction similarly leads you down one narrow path. Intercut are scenes alluding to childhood trauma and suicidal thoughts, with Lainey singing next to him.

In the climax, Jelly Roll stands on the tracks facing an oncoming train. At the last second it disappears, representing his demons fading as he chooses to keep fighting. Just as Lainey pleads in the chorus to “save me from myself,” this visual shows that moment of being pulled back from the edge thanks to support and inner strength.

Impact on Fans

For fans of Jelly Roll, especially those who may be dealing with similar mental health or addiction issues, “Save Me” became an anthem. His transparency in the song and acknowledgment of needing support resonated widely. Empowering lyrics like “I’m still healin’, but I know it takes time” validate the challenging but hopeful process of sustained recovery.

The song’s themes also connected to country fans who may not listen to much rap or hip hop, showing Jelly Roll’s lyrical songwriting translates across genres. “Save Me” boosted Jelly Roll’s crossover appeal in a massive way.

Saving Himself

Ultimately, “Save Me” stands out in Jelly Roll’s discography because of its fearless look inward. Instead of preaching to others, he admits his own pain and need for help during the darkest of times. There is power in self-awareness, the first step toward climbing out of that hole.

While Lainey Wilson lends the perfect reassuring vocals, “Save Me” reveals that Jelly Roll’s inner strength and perseverance, even when nearly drowned by addiction, are what pulled him from the brink. He saved himself, and in the process created a song that continues to save others.

FAQs

What inspired Jelly Roll to write "Save Me"?

Jelly Roll wrote "Save Me" as a way to share his personal battles with drug addiction, depression and trauma from childhood abuse. The candid lyrics depict him spiraling into his darkest moments and needing help before losing himself completely.

How did Lainey Wilson get involved with the track?

Jelly Roll collaborated with rising country star Lainey Wilson for the track, feeling her traditional yet bold sound and personal songwriting would perfectly suit the raw emotion of "Save Me." Lainey's powerful vocals on the hook represent redemption calling Jelly Roll back from his lowest points.

What message is the music video trying to convey?

The intense video shows Jelly Roll nearly getting hit by a train, symbolizing his struggles with addiction, trauma and suicidal thoughts almost ending his life. Him moving away at the last second represents choosing to keep fighting his demons with support from loved ones.

How did the song resonate with fans?

"Save Me" deeply impacted fans dealing with similar mental health and addiction issues. Jelly Roll's honesty about needing help empowered listeners in their own recovery journeys, making them feel less alone.