Tag Archives: people I admire

Unlikely Angel

Jelly Roll

I can’t say enough about this man.

He was in and out of jail during his teens and early adulthood for about 10 years. He was notified that he had become a father and decided to turn his life around. He got his GED in jail.

As you can see, he’s a big man with face tats – an unlikely looking angel, for sure. He is a singer and song writer, winning all kinds of awards in the past several years (3 CMT awards this year). He is trying to give back to his community and is giving understanding and hope in his songs.

Some of the lyrics in his original song, “Save Me” are –

“I’m a lost cause
Baby, don’t waste your time on me
I’m so damaged beyond repair
Life has shattered my hopes and my dreams”

I’ve told you I’m watching what is called “reaction videos” on YouTube. The reaction to Jelly Roll’s songs is amazing. The men reacting really FEEL the lyrics and obviously identify with them. Many actually tear up or outright cry. Jelly Roll is voicing the feelings of MANY who have had problems, felt rejected, felt thwarted or useless in their lives. The fact that Jelly Roll is successful now is such an uplifting thing.

A more unlikely angel there will probably never be. Along with the face tats, he has VERY strong, ‘salty’ language. This is a real, honest, raw, GOOD man with a big heart who is trying to be a good husband and father, writing and singing music that he describes as ‘therapeutic’ music. He believes music can save people, and I believe he is right.

Leave a comment

Filed under Favorite People, music

People I Admire – Jim Henson

YouTube-Nerd Nite

Jim Henson left a lasting, creative footprint that changed the lives of children all over the world.

Sesame Street – Jim Henson’s Creature Shop

I don’t remember how old I was when I first saw The Muppets on Sesame Street or The Muppets Show, but it was love at first sight. The whole idea of puppetry was forever changed. The closest I’ve seen before or since was in some of the characters created by modern ventriloquists.

Even though he died when he was only 53, his creativity changed the world.

“A statue of Henson with Kermit was erected on the campus of Henson’s alma mater, the University of Maryland, College Park in 2003.” ~ Wikipedia

Disney artists Joe Lanzisero and Tim Kirk drew this tribute of Mickey Mouse consoling Kermit the Frog, which appeared in the Summer 1990 issue of WD Eye” ~ Wikipedia

I hope that he knew how much his vision brought joy to people, aside from the Grammys and other awards and tributes. I picture him seeing the delight in the faces of children (and adults) as they enjoy the colorful world he created.

Leave a comment

Filed under Favorite People