During the 2024 Country Music Association Awards on November 20, Jelly Roll and the legendary duo Brooks & Dunn delivered a mesmerizing performance of their song “Believe,” transforming the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville into a soulful worship space.
The performance featured Kix Brooks on piano and Ronnie Dunn sharing vocal duties with Jelly Roll, who is known for his hit “Son of a Sinner.” The trio was backed by a full orchestra, creating a heightened emotional atmosphere. As their powerful voices intertwined, many attendees were visibly moved, with some audience members raising their hands in response to the spirit of the performance.
The poignant lyrics resonated deeply with the audience, as Jelly Roll sang, “I can’t quote the book/ Don’t know the chapter or the verse,” and Dunn followed with, “You can’t tell me this all ends/ In a slow ride in a hearse.” As the performance drew to a close, Jelly Roll pointed skyward and exclaimed, “I love you, Lord,” further solidifying the spiritual vibe of the moment.
The CMA Awards, hosted by Peyton Manning, Luke Bryan, and Lainey Wilson this year, celebrated the stars and songs that have made an impact in country music over the past year. Both Jelly Roll and Brooks & Dunn received nominations, with Jelly Roll vying for entertainer of the year and male vocalist of the year, while Brooks & Dunn was recognized in the vocal duo category. Additionally, Jelly Roll was nominated for album of the year for his acclaimed project, Whitsitt Chapel, although the award was ultimately given to Cody Johnson for his album Leather.
This performance not only highlighted the rich talent within the country music genre but also showcased the power of music to evoke emotional and spiritual connections among both the artists and the audience.
In summary, Jelly Roll and Brooks & Dunn’s collaboration at the CMA Awards served as a moving reminder of the unifying power of music, bringing together artists and fans alike in a moment of shared emotional experience.