Jelly Roll’s Grammy Acceptance Speech: A Moment of Redemption Over Politics

After the Grammy Awards aired live from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles before 12,000 attendees and millions of viewers globally, the one speech resonating most centered on faith and redemption, delivered by Jason DeFord, better known as Jelly Roll.

As DeFord stepped up to accept his Best Contemporary Country Album award, he spoke through emotion about the long road that carried him from the criminal justice system to the very stage where he now stood.

He said: “They’re going to try to kick me off here, so just let me try to get this out. First of all, Jesus, I hear you, and I’m listening.”

“I would have never changed my life without you,” he added. “I would have ended up dead or in jail. I would have killed myself if it wasn’t for you and Jesus.”

DeFord explained the inspiration behind his album: “There was a time in my life that I was broken. That’s why I wrote this album.”

He held up a small red Bible: “There was a moment in my life that all I had was a Bible this big and a radio the same size, and a 6-by-8-foot cell.”

“And I believe those two things could change my life,” he said. “Jesus is for everybody. Jesus is not owned by one political party. Jesus is not owned by no music label.”

When asked why he hadn’t entered politics, DeFord responded: “You know, I’m a dumb redneck… I haven’t watched enough news. I don’t have social media.”