Nashville-based reporter Jonathan Mattise, known for his expertise in courts and crime coverage, recognized that a story involving Grammy-nominated country star Jelly Roll would generate national attention—especially if it involved the singer’s bid for a pardon.
Jelly Roll, known for his hit “Son of a Sinner,” had quietly appeared before Tennessee’s state parole board to ask for a pardon for crimes committed as a young man. Mattise spotted a tweet from the local sheriff showing a photo from the meeting and immediately started digging.
With extensive experience accessing state board records, Mattise and reporter Travis Loller quickly filed a records request and reviewed a 117-page clemency application that detailed the singer’s criminal history and redemption arc.
Mid-South chief video journalist Kristin M. Hall provided important background on Jelly Roll’s transformation from rapper to country music star and how his music reflects his life story.
The AP team obtained audio from the hearing, including a poignant moment when Jelly Roll spoke candidly about his hopes to tour internationally and use his story to inspire others—a soundbite that was featured in AP’s online presentation and made available to members.
Mattise closed the story with a quote from the Tennessee governor, who will ultimately decide whether to grant the pardon.
The reporting was widely cited by major outlets, including The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Billboard, CNN, TMZ and People, underscoring AP’s leadership on the story.
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