The final night of the 58th Festival d'été de Québec (FEQ) on the Plains of Abraham was a celebration of musical diversity, headlined by the genre-defying artist Jelly Roll. The American singer-songwriter, born Jason DeFord, took the stage moments after the scheduled start time, launching into his recent single Hands Up from his latest album. The crowd immediately responded, raising their hands and singing along, setting the tone for an evening that blended country, rock, hip-hop, and pop into a unique live experience.
Jelly Roll was accompanied by a ten-piece band, including three backing vocalists, and the stage design featured projections resembling stained-glass windows, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a church. This visual theme perfectly complemented the opening song Hard Fought Hallelujah, a track that has become an anthem for his journey from a troubled past to redemption. The artist, who has openly discussed his criminal record and multiple stints in prison, used the concert as a platform for messages of hope and second chances.
Early in the set, Jelly Roll turned the spotlight on his drummer, affectionately nicknamed Porkchop, who engaged the crowd by tapping two beer cans and taking a swig before launching into a powerful drum solo. The energy continued to build as the band transitioned into a more energetic live version of Liar than the studio recording. Within just three songs, it was clear that the connection between Jelly Roll and the Quebec audience was strong.
One of the most talked-about moments of the night came when Jelly Roll performed a medley of unexpected covers. He included snippets of Where Is the Love? by Black Eyed Peas, No Scrubs by TLC, I Want It That Way by Backstreet Boys, and Drop It Like It's Hot by Snoop Dogg. The latter was a natural choice given Jelly Roll's early career in rap. He also incorporated a portion of Killing in the Name by Rage Against the Machine, a band that had already been referenced earlier in the evening during the opening set by James Barker Band. This eclectic mix led many to realize that Jelly Roll is not defined by a single genre; he is a celebration of music itself.
Amid the covers, Jelly Roll also performed his own hits, including Bloodline (a collaboration with Alex Warren), and country classics by Garth Brooks and John Denver. He even offered a rendition of Wake Me Up by the late Avicii, a track that seemed out of place at first but ultimately fit the theme of musical inclusivity. The audience was treated to a true chansonnier-style performance on a grand scale.
During the emotional ballad I'm Not Okay, Jelly Roll sat on a stool, facing the sea of cellphone lights swaying left and right. He took the opportunity to share a personal story: despite being told he would never be allowed to cross the border due to his criminal record, this was his second visit to Quebec City. He had previously performed at the Centre Vidéotron in March 2025. The moment was a testament to his resilience and the power of music to transcend barriers.
The artist also made a point to connect with fans at ground level. He stepped off the stage to take photos, sign autographs, and even gave away his hat. He spotted a young fan named Nicolas Larose holding a sign, and invited him on stage to play guitar during the final song, Save Me, as fireworks and pyrotechnics lit up the sky. Nicolas, 18, later said he had learned to play the guitar on that very song and described the experience as both stressful and amazing. He added that it made his entire FEQ experience.
Throughout the night, Jelly Roll acted as a preacher, speaking to the crowd about the things he believes in: music as therapy and the power of second chances. He ensured his messages were understood by Quebec's primarily French-speaking audience, asking a crew member to translate a key line: "The important thing in life is not what you do, but who you do it with." His sincerity and charisma won over even those unfamiliar with his work.
Daughtry Brings Heavy Rock
Before Jelly Roll took the stage, the evening featured two opening acts that set the tone. Daughtry, the rock band fronted by Chris Daughtry, brought a heavier sound that contrasted with the country-leaning headliner. Their set featured darker aesthetics and moments approaching metal. They performed their own version of Journey's Separate Ways (Worlds Apart), a track they had re-recorded with a more aggressive, double-kick drum approach. The band then transitioned into their 20-year-old hits It's Not Over and Home. During Home, Chris Daughtry performed solo with an acoustic guitar, inviting the crowd to sing along or invent their own lyrics. The rocker, covered in tattoos and wearing black nail polish, thanked the crowd in French, earning a warm response.
James Barker Band Opens the Night
The evening began with Canadian country-rock group James Barker Band. They opened with Caught Me at a Good Time, immediately energizing the relatively full parterre. Their set showcased three guitarists, a bassist, and a drummer, with bassist Bobby Martin standing out with his groovy lines on songs like Somebody I Know and Lawn Chair Lazy. After the double-platinum hit Chills, they introduced their latest single After Dark, released just weeks earlier, which ended with an a cappella vocal moment. Frontman James Barker took a walk through the crowd, high-fiving fans who had rushed to the front. They also included a cover of Rage Against the Machine's Killing in the Name, a nod to the rock influences coursing through the evening.
In total, the closing night of FEQ was a testament to the festival's ability to showcase a wide range of musical styles. Jelly Roll's performance was especially notable for its vulnerability and showmanship. His story of redemption resonates strongly with fans, and his inclusion of diverse covers demonstrated a deep respect for music history. The event also highlighted the growing popularity of country and rock crossover acts in Quebec, a province with strong ties to both genres. Daughtry's heavy rock provided a necessary contrast, while James Barker Band's country-rock energy set the stage perfectly.
Beyond the music, the night was marked by human connections: a young guitarist living his dream on stage, a drummer sharing a beer with the crowd, and an artist who took the time to ensure every word of his message was understood. The Festival d'été de Québec once again proved why it remains one of Canada's premier music festivals, drawing international talent and creating unforgettable moments for tens of thousands of attendees on the historic Plains of Abraham.
Jelly Roll's setlist included not only his biggest songs but also deep cuts that long-time fans appreciated. The combination of original material and well-chosen covers kept the energy high throughout his two-hour performance. The use of pyrotechnics and fireworks during the finale added a dramatic touch that left the crowd cheering long after the last notes faded. As the festival season continues, this performance will likely be remembered as one of the highlights of the summer, showcasing an artist at the peak of his powers who knows how to unite a crowd through sheer musical passion.
Source: MSN News