During the 2024 Country Music Association Awards held on November 20, 2023, Jelly Roll and the iconic duo Brooks & Dunn delivered a powerful performance of “Believe”, transforming Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena into a heartfelt worship experience. Kix Brooks played the piano while Ronnie Dunn shared the lead vocals with Jelly Roll, who is well-known for his hit “Son of a Sinner”. Their rendition, accompanied by a full orchestra, resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom were visibly moved, raising their hands and shedding tears as the emotional intensity of the song reached its peak.
The performance featured the poignant lyrics where Jelly Roll sang, “I can’t quote the book/ Don’t know the chapter or the verse,” and Ronnie Dunn responded with, “You can’t tell me this all ends/ In a slow ride in a hearse.” As the song concluded, Jelly Roll paid tribute by looking skyward and expressing his love for the Lord into the microphone.
The ceremony, hosted by Peyton Manning, Luke Bryan, and Lainey Wilson, celebrated some of the most significant names and moments in country music over the past year. Jelly Roll and Brooks & Dunn were both nominated for multiple awards, with Jelly up for both Entertainer of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year, while Brooks & Dunn were nominated for Vocal Duo of the Year. Notably, Jelly competed for Album of the Year with his acclaimed 2023 release, Whitsitt Chapel; however, the award went to Cody Johnson for his album Leather.
This performance exemplifies the power of music to evoke strong emotions and bring people together, highlighting the community spirit inherent in country music. The heartfelt moments at the CMAs remind us of the deep connections forged through song, especially in a genre that often celebrates life’s highs and lows.
Overall, this event not only showcased exceptional talent but also amplified the spiritual and emotional dimensions of country music, leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.