The Vulnerable Confession
Released on June 25, 2020, Save Me is a powerful ballad that serves as a raw and unfiltered confession from Jelly Roll, the multi-talented artist known for his genre-bending sound.
Hailing from the album “Self Medicated,” this track stands as a stark departure from his usual style, showcasing a more stripped-down and introspective side.
In an interview with Apple Music, Jelly Roll revealed the song’s inception during the pandemic’s height, when he found himself grappling with grief over his father’s passing and the weight of his vices.
“I was in such a dark space because of that; I knew I needed to write,” he admitted, underscoring the cathartic nature of Save Me.
The Lyrics: A Raw Depiction of Addiction
The lyrics of Save Me paint a vivid picture of Jelly Roll’s struggles with addiction, highlighting his feelings of defeat, desperation, and hopelessness.
The opening lines are compelling, drawing you into the depths of his narrative.
“Somebody save me, me from myself I’ve spent so long livin’ in hell. They say my lifestyle is bad for my health. It’s the only thing that seems to help.”
These lyrics reveal Jelly Roll’s acknowledgment of his self-destructive behaviour and the paradoxical need for the very substances that are harming him.
The pre-chorus further emphasises his dependence on drinking and smoking, despite recognising their futility:
“All of this drinkin’ and smokin’ is hopeless, but feel like it’s all that I need. Somethin’ inside of me’s broken; I hold on to anything that sets me free.”
The chorus encapsulates the depth of his despair as he declares himself a “lost cause” and warns others not to waste their time on him, conveying a sense of irreparable damage and shattered dreams.
The Stripped-Down Music Video
The official music video for Save Me premiered on June 16, 2020, and showcased Jelly Roll’s vulnerable side in a stripped-down acoustic performance.
In the video’s description, Jelly Roll explained, “This one is a little bit of a curveball for me. I don’t usually do these stripped down acoustic videos, but writing this song made me feel something, and I felt y’all needed some insight into the more vulnerable side of the music business.”
Save Me by Jelly Roll is known for its haunting melody and soulful instrumentation, which create an emotional atmosphere that complements the raw and honest lyrics of the track.
Jelly Roll’s vocal delivery on Save Me is deeply personal and emotive, resonating with listeners through its sincerity and vulnerability.
His voice carries a sense of pain and longing, which is a key aspect of the song’s appeal.
The way he conveys the lyrics adds to the song’s powerful message of struggle and hope for redemption.
The combination of the instrumental arrangement and Jelly Roll’s heartfelt vocal performance makes Save Me a poignant and impactful song that has touched many fans, reflecting the artist’s personal journey and battles.
Accolades and Collaborations
Save Me has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning a triple platinum certification from the RIAA in the United States.
In May 2023, Jelly Roll released an official remix of the song with American country music singer Lainey Wilson, further amplifying its reach.
The duo’s powerful performances of Save Me at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards, as well as the finale of season 21 of American Idol, solidified the song’s impact and Jelly Roll’s ability to connect with listeners through his raw, honest storytelling.
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Jelly Roll Save Me Lyrics
Intro
One, two, three
Verse 1
Somebody save me, me from myself
I’ve spent so long livin’ in hell
They say my lifestyle is bad for my health
It’s the only thing that seems to help
Pre-Chorus
All of this drinkin’ and smokin’ is hopeless but feel like it’s all that I need
Somethin’ inside of me’s broken, I hold on to anything that sets me free
Chorus
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’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
Verse 2
What if the night sky was missin’ the moon?
There were no shootin’ stars to use wishin’ on you
And all of my sorrows, I’d just wash them down
It’s the only peace I’ve ever found
Pre-Chorus
All of this drinkin’ and smokin’ is hopeless but feel like it’s all that I need
Somethin’ inside of me’s broken, I hold on to anything that sets me free
Chorus
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’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