It’s no secret that the cost of live music is one heck of a sore spot for the average fan these days. In some ways the conversation around ticket prices has been louder than the music at some concerts. And now we have Jelly Roll, stepping into the fray with a transparency that’s as refreshing as it is rare in today’s music industry. Proving once again that nothing matters more to Mr. Roll (only calling him that one time don’t worry) than his fans.
I came across a Facebook post he made the other day and it struck a chord. In it, Jelly Roll lays it all out about his ‘Beautifully Broken Tour.’ From presale codes to the stark reality of third-party markups, he’s pulling back the curtain on the often murky world of concert ticket sales. Jelly writes:
TL:DR? He’s fighting to keep ticket prices reasonable. Starting at $39.50US, he’s making a stand against the industry’s norm of inflated prices. It’s a move that speaks volumes, especially when you consider the lengths some go to see their favorite artists live. Babysitters, parking, merchandise, beers – it all adds up, and he gets it.
He gets it because this isn’t just about music. It’s about making sure his shows are accessible, ensuring fans don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a night out. In a time when the price of a concert ticket can rival that of a small vacation, Jelly Roll’s stance is a breath of fresh air. But he doesn’t stop there. He takes a jab at the scalpers and third-party sellers, the real culprits behind those $3,500 floor seats. His message is clear: the only way to beat them is by sticking to official channels.
What’s refreshing about Jelly Roll’s approach is the directness. There’s no beating around the bush or PR spin, just straight talk from an artist known for being genuine, and who truly cares about his fans’ experience. In a world where authenticity often takes a backseat to profit, Jelly Roll’s post is a reminder of what matters most: the music, the fans, and the shared experiences that live concerts offer. It’s a call to action, not just for fans but for artists and the industry at large, to prioritize accessibility over profit margins.
As someone who’s seen the impact of these practices firsthand (and who is, frankly, tired of seeing a large part of our community priced out of seeing live music), it’s heartening to see artists like Jelly Roll (along with his friend Zach Bryan) taking a stand. It’s a conversation that’s long overdue, and hopefully, one that will lead to real change in the industry.
In the meantime, I’ll be keeping an eye on JellyRoll615.com each and every day in the hopes he gets his legal troubles solved so he can FINALLY tour in Canada. Because we deserve to see him too. Here’s to more artists following in Jelly Roll’s footsteps, and to fans everywhere who deserve to enjoy live music without emptying their wallets.