Emotional Magic: Jelly Roll Joins Brooks & Dunn for a Moving CMA Performance of “Believe”

At the 58th Annual Country Music Association Awards, held on November 20, 2024, at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. The night was filled with spectacular performances, but one moment stood out as particularly poignant and memorable. The legendary duo Brooks & Dunn took the stage to deliver a heartfelt rendition of their 2005 hit “Believe,” and they were joined by rising star Jelly Roll. This unexpected collaboration seamlessly blended the duo’s classic country sound with Jelly Roll’s soulful vocals, creating a performance that resonated deeply with the audience and left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

The performance began with Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, stepping onto the stage solo. His presence was commanding, and he immediately drew the audience in with a raw and powerful delivery of the opening verse. Jelly Roll’s ability to convey deep emotion through his voice set an emotional tone that captivated everyone present. As the song progressed, Kix Brooks joined him on the piano, adding a layer of depth to the arrangement. The interplay between Jelly Roll and Brooks was seamless, highlighting the timeless nature of the song’s message about faith and perseverance.

As the song built momentum, Ronnie Dunn made his entrance, receiving enthusiastic applause from the crowd. His voice blended effortlessly with Jelly Roll’s, creating a harmonious chorus that was both moving and uplifting. The addition of a live string section further enriched the performance, providing a lush backdrop that enhanced the emotional impact of the vocals. The chemistry between Dunn and Jelly Roll was palpable, demonstrating a mutual respect and understanding that transcended generational differences within the country music community.

“Believe,” originally released on Brooks & Dunn’s “Hillbilly Deluxe” album, has long been a favorite among fans and critics alike. The song’s narrative of hope and resilience struck a chord with listeners, earning it numerous accolades, including the CMA Awards for Single of the Year, Song of the Year, and Music Video of the Year in 2006. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to convey a powerful message through relatable storytelling, making it a perfect choice for this collaborative performance. The fresh interpretation by Brooks & Dunn and Jelly Roll breathed new life into the classic track, reaffirming its place in country music history.

Jelly Roll, born in Nashville in 1986, has carved out a unique niche in the music industry with his genre-blending style. Starting his career in hip-hop, he transitioned to country music, bringing with him a distinct voice and an authentic approach to storytelling. His lyrics often reflect his personal experiences, resonating with a broad audience that appreciates his honesty and vulnerability. The collaboration with Brooks & Dunn on “Believe” is featured on their “Reboot II” album, released on November 15, 2024. This project pairs the duo with contemporary artists, allowing them to reimagine their classic hits while bridging the gap between different generations of country music.

The CMA Awards performance was met with widespread acclaim from both fans and critics. Many audience members were visibly moved by the emotional depth of the rendition, praising the collaboration for its ability to bridge generational gaps within the genre. This performance showcased the evolution of country music, highlighting how it can honor its roots while embracing new influences and voices. The genuine connection between Brooks & Dunn and Jelly Roll was evident, enhancing the authenticity of the performance and underscoring the song’s timeless message.

Brooks & Dunn, consisting of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, have been influential figures in country music since their debut in the early 1990s. Their dynamic performances and a string of chart-topping hits have solidified their status as country music icons. Throughout their career, they have been known for their ability to blend traditional country elements with contemporary sounds, appealing to a wide range of listeners. Their willingness to collaborate with newer artists like Jelly Roll demonstrates their commitment to fostering the genre’s growth and inclusivity, ensuring that country music remains vibrant and relevant.

Jelly Roll’s involvement in this high-profile performance underscores his rising prominence in the country music scene. His ability to convey deep emotion through his music has endeared him to a diverse audience, and collaborations with established artists like Brooks & Dunn further solidify his place in the industry. Jelly Roll’s journey from a tumultuous past to mainstream success serves as an inspiring narrative of redemption and perseverance, themes that resonate deeply with fans. His collaboration on “Believe” not only highlights his vocal prowess but also his capacity to connect with listeners on a profound level.

The “Believe” performance at the CMA Awards stands as a testament to the unifying power of music. It demonstrated how artists from different backgrounds and eras can come together to create something truly special. The seamless blend of Brooks & Dunn’s classic sound with Jelly Roll’s contemporary style showcased the versatility and enduring appeal of well-crafted songs. This performance highlighted the importance of collaboration in keeping the genre vibrant and relevant, ensuring that country music continues to evolve while staying true to its core themes of faith, hope, and resilience.

In the days following the CMA Awards, the performance continued to garner significant attention on social media and music platforms. Fans praised the seamless blend of traditional and contemporary elements, noting how the collaboration honored the song’s legacy while introducing it to a new generation. The performance served as a reminder of country music’s rich history and its capacity to evolve without losing its essence. The heartfelt delivery and emotional resonance of the performance left a lasting impression, reinforcing the genre’s reputation for powerful storytelling and genuine expression.

For those who missed the live broadcast, the performance quickly became a highlight online, with countless fans sharing clips and expressing their admiration for the collaboration. The availability of the performance on various platforms allowed a broader audience to experience the emotional depth and artistry that made this collaboration a standout moment in the 2024 CMA Awards. As country music continues to evolve, performances like this one highlight the genre’s ability to honor its past while embracing new voices and perspectives, ensuring its continued relevance and appeal.

Both Brooks & Dunn and Jelly Roll have shown a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of country music. Their collaboration on “Believe” not only celebrates their individual talents but also symbolizes the strength and resilience of the genre as a whole. As country music moves forward, it is collaborations like these that pave the way for future innovations and creative partnerships, ensuring that the genre remains a beloved and influential force in the music industry.