At the 2024 Country Music Association Awards held at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on November 20, Jelly Roll and Brooks & Dunn delivered a heartfelt rendition of their song “Believe,” transforming the venue into a spiritual space. Kix Brooks provided piano accompaniment while Ronnie Dunn shared lead vocals alongside Jelly Roll, creating a powerful performance enhanced by a full orchestra.
The emotional performance resonated deeply with the audience, as many in attendance were seen raising their hands and wiping away tears, captivated by the moving delivery of the song. Lines exchanged between Jelly Roll and Dunn underscored a message of hope and faith, with Jelly singing, “I can’t quote the book/ Don’t know the chapter or the verse,” and Dunn reflecting, “You can’t tell me this all ends/ In a slow ride in a hearse.”
As the performance drew to a close, Jelly Roll expressed his gratitude, looking skyward and stating, “I love you, Lord.”
The ceremony, hosted by Peyton Manning, Luke Bryan, and Lainey Wilson, celebrated the achievements of country music over the past year. Both Jelly Roll and Brooks & Dunn received nominations for their contributions, with Jelly Roll vying for entertainer of the year and male vocalist of the year. Meanwhile, Brooks & Dunn were nominated for vocal duo of the year. Jelly Roll’s recent acclaim was also highlighted as his 2023 album, Whitsitt Chapel, earned him a nomination for album of the year, although the award went to Cody Johnson for his album Leather.
This performance not only showcased the talent and passion of these artists but also highlighted the community and connection that country music fosters among its fans and performers alike. The emotional depth of their collaboration stands as a reminder of music’s power to unite people in shared experiences of love and faith.