Jelly Roll's "I Am Not Okay" Earns RIAA Platinum Certification

Jelly Roll's single "I Am Not Okay," released on June 12, 2024, has been honored with both Gold and Digital Platinum certifications by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) as of December 12, 2024, marking a significant achievement in his career. The track has profoundly connected with audiences by addressing themes of mental health and personal struggle.

Co-written by Jelly Roll (Jason DeFord), Taylor Phillips, Ashley Gorley, and Casey Brown during an October 2023 tour stop in North Carolina, the song was inspired by the emotional reactions of concertgoers. Phillips remarked that attending Jelly Roll's concert felt akin to going to church, to which Jelly Roll responded, "I’m just making it okay for people to not be okay," a sentiment that became central to the song's message.

Produced by Zach Crowell, the track begins with acoustic guitar plucking, gradually incorporating drums, synthesizers, and orchestral elements to enhance its moving lyrics.

Jelly Roll introduced "I Am Not Okay" to a national audience during the Season 25 finale of The Voice on May 21, 2024. He further performed the track at the CMA Fest on June 8, 2024, and during the "In Memoriam" segment at the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards, where his sincere performance was widely praised.

The single achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay Chart and the Mediabase country chart, marking Jelly Roll's sixth consecutive No. 1 at country radio. Its candid exploration of mental health offered solace and a sense of shared experience to listeners. Jelly Roll's unpolished vocal delivery added authenticity, making the song feel like a personal confession.

Jelly Roll's transformation from a troubled past—including time in jail and battles with addiction—to becoming a celebrated artist showcases his incredible resilience. His music often dives deep into personal struggles, aiming to connect with and uplift those facing similar challenges. Beyond his musical achievements, Jelly Roll has taken on advocacy roles, such as testifying before a Senate committee on drug policy and contributing to organizations that support mental health and addiction recovery.

The RIAA's Gold and Digital Platinum certifications for "I Am Not Okay" highlight Jelly Roll's impact on contemporary music and his ability to address profound themes with sincerity. The song's success emphasizes the importance of open conversations about mental health and the power of music to foster connection and healing.