Jelly Roll Man — Bill Simpson Lyrics

Song Facts:

• Genre: Blues


• Soundtrack: Long Game


• Lyricist: Bill Simpson


• Composer: Bill Simpson

Artist Info:

Bill Simpson is a blues musician known for his lively storytelling through music. He incorporates humor and innuendo into his lyrics, creating a distinctive blend of playful and soulful blues. His compositions are often rooted in traditional blues rhythms and structures while conveying a modern edge.

Annotations and Meaning:

*Jelly Roll Man* plays with double entendre and metaphor to explore themes of desire, indulgence, and satisfaction.

Verse 1:

"I work in a bakery shop from 12 to 9 / Can't nobody bake jelly rolls like mine"
Simpson introduces the protagonist as someone proud of their craft. The "jelly roll" serves as a metaphor for a sweet treat and suggests the protagonist is confident in their unique appeal.
"I love my jelly, / Love my sweet jelly roll"
Reiterating his love for his product, he indicates that his "jelly roll" is something special.

Chorus:

"And when you taste my jelly roll / It satisfies your very soul"
The chorus conveys a universal appeal, implying that the protagonist's "jelly roll" can bring deep satisfaction to anyone who tries it.

Verse 2:

"If you don't think my jelly roll is good / Acts in a chick living in your neighbourhood"
Challenging doubters, he invites them to ask around for testimonies of how satisfying his "jelly roll" can be.
"Honey, I bought my jelly, / Bought my sweet jelly roll"
He emphasizes his pride and ownership over the product.

Verse 3:

"I was standing on a corner / With a basket in my hand / Picks past and said there stands a general man"
Simpson adds a humorous touch by describing the protagonist selling his "jelly roll" on the street, earning a reputation as a "general man" for his quality product.

Verse 4:

"Well, I went up on a mountain / And I looked down in a hole / I saw two monkeys doing the sweet jelly roll"
This verse plays with innuendo as he describes monkeys engaging in the "sweet jelly roll," alluding to intimacy or playful indulgence.

Verse 5:

"Check your house cats and far, / They ain't no farming around / Throw your jelly roll out the window, let the shackers on"
Encouraging listeners to protect their prized "jelly roll," he implies that others are always on the lookout to enjoy it.

Verse 6:

"Oh, oh, grandpa, the lost is mine / Grandma run away and left the source on line / Looking for jelly, / Looking for sweet jelly roll"
In this verse, Simpson humorously addresses a family in turmoil as they search for the "sweet jelly roll."

Themes and Messages:

• Double Entendre: The song plays heavily with double entendre, using "jelly roll" as a metaphor for indulgence, intimacy, and satisfaction.


• Confidence and Pride: The protagonist confidently showcases his unique appeal through his "jelly roll," expressing pride in his ability to satisfy.


• Humor and Playfulness: Simpson injects humor and playful storytelling into the song, making it an entertaining and lively piece.