Even the Biggest Stars Can Suffer Stage Fright
Jelly Roll, one of the biggest names in country music, has captivated audiences with his soulful performances and heartfelt lyrics. But behind the confident presence on stage lies a performer who battles intense pre-show anxiety. As candid as he is talented, Jelly Roll (real name: Jason DeFord) has shared the unique methods that help him conquer his nerves before stepping into the spotlight.
Rituals That Calm the Storm
To prepare for his shows, Jelly Roll relies on a carefully crafted pre-show routine. According to an exclusive source, he spends time in a hot sauna followed by a cold plunge. The combination helps him physically and mentally reset, easing tension and providing clarity. This thermal contrast is not only rejuvenating but also scientifically linked to reducing stress and improving focus.


Another go-to for Jelly Roll? Bananas. Packed with potassium and known for their calming properties, bananas are his snack of choice for managing performance anxiety.
His preparation doesn’t stop there. Vocal warm-ups, cardio exercises, and stretching are essential parts of his routine, allowing him to feel physically ready and mentally centered. He also turns to prayer as a way to ground himself and find reassurance before showtime.
From Jitters to Joy
Despite his preparation, Jelly Roll admits the nerves don’t completely disappear. He has spoken openly about how the pressure of performing, particularly for live television events like Saturday Night Live, can feel overwhelming. As recently as December 2024, he confirmed that “pre-show jitters never go away.”
During an appearance on Andrew Schulz’s Flagrant podcast, Jelly Roll shared how he spent hours backstage worrying about how he might mess up his live performance. Even on the night of SNL’s 50th season opener, he found himself pacing in the green room until he finally sat with his wife, Bunnie Xo, in the audience to calm his nerves.
“When I heard, ‘Ladies and gentlemen, Jelly Roll,’ I thought, ‘Why wasn’t I this nervous the first time?’” he confessed, reflecting on the intensity of performing live.
But once he steps onto the stage, the magic happens. “The fans sustain him, the music lifts him, and the nerves go away,” a source close to the singer shared.
Looking Ahead
Jelly Roll is preparing for one of his biggest performances yet: headlining the second night of the Stagecoach Festival in April 2025, where he’s expected to perform for an audience of 75,000 fans. While the size of the crowd may be daunting, Jelly Roll remains committed to his rituals and mindset.
“It’s huge, huge, huge. It’s our Coachella,” he said, teasing surprises for the set that could make it a truly legendary night.
The Takeaway
Jelly Roll’s journey reminds us that even the most successful performers face self-doubt and anxiety. What sets him apart is his willingness to embrace these feelings and lean on a routine that works for him. From saunas and cold plunges to bananas and prayer, Jelly Roll’s methods offer inspiration for anyone dealing with stage fright or high-pressure situations.
In the end, his message is clear: preparation, self-care, and connection with others can turn anxiety into something that fuels greatness. And for Jelly Roll, the love of his fans and the power of music make it all worth it.

So Where Does This Leave You?
Maybe you aren’t a famous country star, performing for thousands, but still suffer from anxiety when speaking in front of others, or in high stress situations like meetings, presentations, or even job interviews. If Jelly Roll’s methods don’t work for you, perhaps try a program specifically designed for high public speaking anxiety, like SpeakCalmHQ. Specialized programs like this one will help you understand the root of your anxiety symptoms, desensitize your triggers, and help you overcome your phobia with gradual practice in controlled and encouraging environments.