Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
“I’m just happy to see the message and the gospel being shared,” the Grammy-nominated artist said.
Jelly Roll isn’t worried about being judged by others.
In an interview with the Associated Press on Friday, Dec. 12, the 41-year-old singer of “Save Me” discussed his three Grammy nominations for 2026, including one for “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” his collaboration with Christian music artist Brandon Lake. Known offstage as Jason DeFord, Jelly Roll spoke candidly about criticism from some organized religions.
“I really don’t care when organized religions wave their finger at me,” he said. “I’m just glad to see the message, the gospel, being shared.”
He also noted a spiritual resurgence happening across the U.S. “I think there really is a revival happening in America right now, where people are being presented the gospel in a way that’s digestible. It doesn’t feel so finger-wagging or like ‘You’re all going to hell,’ you know?”
Reflecting on his own journey with faith, Jelly Roll shared how religion helped him navigate difficult times, including struggles with jail and drug use. “I’m a broken dude who came from a broken place, and like Humpty Dumpty, they put me back together, baby,” he said.
While he’s receiving his first-ever Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song with Lake, Jelly Roll doesn’t see himself fully crossing into the Christian music genre. “I definitely live a little too secular to be releasing Christian music,” he explained. Still, having “Hard Fought Hallelujah” recognized is a reminder that “God knows my heart.”
In addition to the nomination with Lake, Jelly Roll is up for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “Amen” with Shaboozey and Best Contemporary Country Album for his 2024 release Beautifully Broken. He was also invited to join the Grand Ole Opry, a moment that moved him to tears during a Dec. 10 appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast.
Country singer Craig Morgan delivered the news in a pre-recorded message, saying, “I’ll never forget meeting you at the Grand Ole Opry and how much it meant to me to hear you say my music helped you get through some really tough times. That’s one thing country music does really well. And who would’ve imagined back then that I’d be back at the Opry House today to say, ‘Jelly Roll, you’re officially invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.’ Welcome to the family, brother.”