Jelly Roll hosted a massive free concert on Saturday, February 1, at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, to honor the bravery and dedication of first responders who fought against the devastating wildfires impacting the region. The event, aptly titled 'A Concert for All First Responders,' drew nearly 16,000 attendees, including over 1,000 incarcerated firefighters from across the state.
The star-studded lineup featured performances from notable artists like Lainey Wilson, Nate Smith, Marshmello, Public Enemy, and Shinedown, who collaborated with Jelly Roll to present over 30 songs during this two-hour showcase. The event was organized by Live Nation, ensuring all first responders, including members of the California Professional Firefighters, LAPD, and National Guard, received complimentary admission.
Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, expressed immense gratitude to the crowd gathered to honor their hard work over the last two months. “I want you to know you are here tonight because you are a hero or you are a loved one of a hero,” he declared passionately from the stage. “And I knew the moment I was watching this go down all the way in Tennessee... if I got the chance to come to California, I was gonna play music to everyone who worked their ass off for the last two months trying to keep the rest of this place safe.”
Throughout the evening, Jelly Roll performed several of his chart-topping hits, opening with songs like “Liar,” “Son of a Sinner,” and his Grammy-nominated track “I Am Not Okay.” He invited fellow artists to join him on stage, creating memorable moments through lively collaborations such as “Whiskey on You” with Nate Smith and “Second Chance” with Shinedown. Audience members were treated to additional high-energy performances from Marshmello and Public Enemy, as the latter delivered their iconic anthem “Fight the Power.”
Lainey Wilson, who has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, joined Jelly Roll for their Grammy-nominated duet “Save Me,” adding emotional depth to the night. The collaborative spirit of the show was evident as Jelly Roll remarked, “This is awesome!” highlighting the sense of community among those who had come to celebrate and uplift one another.
The concert was not only about the music; it represented recognition and appreciation for those who risked their lives to protect their communities during the wildfires. Geni Lincoln, President of Live Nation Concerts, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Music has the power to bring joy and healing, and we’re honored to partner with Jelly Roll to offer... this to those who’ve served the Los Angeles community during the devastating wildfires and the rebuilding process.”
The impact of this heartfelt tribute extended beyond the performance itself. Jelly Roll has previously been vocal about supporting reform for incarcerated individuals, demonstrating his commitment to advocating for those who may often be overlooked. His desire to spotlight the contributions of incarcerated firefighters, who have played pivotal roles in battling wildfires for over a century, added layers of meaning to the event.
Previously, Jelly Roll participated in the FireAid benefit concert just days before, showcasing his dedication to supporting those affected by the wildfires through music. That event featured numerous renowned performers and focused on generating funds for victims and survivors. The Rose Bowl concert, on the other hand, was purely for gratitude and entertainment, demonstrating Jelly Roll's intention to give back without seeking any form of revenue.
Throughout the evening, anecdotes and experiences shared among attendees served to strengthen bonds within the community of first responders and their families, many of whom were invited as guests. The participation of various emergency personnel—from law enforcement to conservation corps—illustrated the collaborative efforts made to combat the wildfires effectively.
The concert's success was fueled by its essence of camaraderie, showcasing Jelly Roll as not just a performer, but as someone genuinely invested in the lives and struggles of those who protect society. This commitment was echoed by Jelly Roll's decision to involve multiple artists, indicating the belief shared among these musicians: to use their platform for good and to support those whose everyday work often goes unnoticed.
Jelly Roll capped off the event with gratitude, saying, “Thank y’all for having me tonight,” as he acknowledged the hard work of the first responders and celebrated their resilience. The performance at the Rose Bowl not only entertained but also provided emotional healing for those deeply affected by the wildfires and acknowledged their sacrifices.
By the end of the night, attendees left feeling appreciated, uplifted, and celebrated. The concert represented more than just musical performances; it embodied gratitude, recognition, and the healing power of community—an unforgettable evening for all who attended.