The Inspirational Speech from 2023 CMA, Jelly Roll Hip-hop to Country Music

 

Introduction

"There is something poetic about a 39-year-old man winning New Artist ... I don’t know where you're at in your life or what you're going through, but I want to tell you to keep going, baby. I want to tell you success is on the other side. It's going to be okay!" –Jelly Roll, 2023 CMA Awards

Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, has taken the music industry by storm with his genre-blending sound and raw, emotional storytelling. From his early days in hip-hop to his rise in country music, Jelly Roll’s journey is one of resilience, authenticity, and relentless passion. His 2023 Country Music Association (CMA) New Artist of the Year award cemented his place in the industry, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Jelly Roll’s upbringing was shaped by struggles, including time spent in and out of juvenile detention centers. Music became his escape, leading him to hip-hop, where he made a name for himself in the underground rap scene. His collaborations with artists like Lil Wyte and Struggle Jennings built his reputation as a raw and unfiltered lyricist.

The Transition to Country Music

Jelly Roll’s deep-rooted storytelling and Southern influences naturally paved the way for his transition into country music. His breakout hit "Save Me", released in 2020, showcased a vulnerable side of the artist, blending bluesy country with introspective lyrics. The song resonated with fans across genres, setting the stage for his mainstream success.

Hit Songs and Chart-Topping Success

Some of Jelly Roll’s most notable tracks include:

• "Son of a Sinner" – A country anthem that delves into themes of redemption and struggle, hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
• "Need a Favor" – A soulful, gritty track that further solidified his place in country music.
• "Save Me" (feat. Lainey Wilson) – A revamped version of his emotional ballad, adding a new depth to his already powerful storytelling.

CMA Awards and Iconic Speech

Jelly Roll’s hard work paid off in November 2023 when he was awarded New Artist of the Year at the CMA Awards. His emotional and passionate acceptance speech quickly went viral, inspiring artists and fans alike. His speech wasn’t just a thank-you—it was a powerful message of resilience, redemption, and belief.

Key Moments from His Speech:

"I don’t know where you're at in your life or what you're going through, but I want to tell you to keep going, baby. I want to tell you success is on the other side. It's going to be okay!"

"One hundred seventy days ago, I was in a county jail. Tonight, I’m standing here at the CMAs holding this award. If you’re watching this, know that change is possible."

"You can be whatever you want to be. I promise you that. It is never too late to chase your dreams. I stand here today as living proof."

Jelly Roll’s words resonated deeply with aspiring artists and people from all walks of life. His rags-to-riches story is a testament to perseverance and self-belief, making his speech one of the most impactful moments in CMA history.

The Future of Jelly Roll

With his unique ability to fuse hip-hop, rock, blues, and country, Jelly Roll is carving out a space of his own in the industry. He has hinted at new music, collaborations, and upcoming tours that will continue to showcase his evolution as an artist.

Conclusion

Jelly Roll’s rise to fame is proof that authenticity, perseverance, and raw talent can break down barriers in the music industry. His ability to connect with audiences across different genres has made him a standout artist in 2024. As he continues to grow, one thing is certain—Jelly Roll isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

What’s your favorite Jelly Roll song? Let us know in the comments!