Jelly Roll's Grammys Speech Focuses on Faith and Redemption

The country artist's acceptance speech highlighted his personal journey and the power of faith over politics.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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At the 2026 Grammy Awards, country artist Jelly Roll, also known as Jason DeFord, delivered an emotional acceptance speech that focused on his faith, family, and personal redemption rather than politics. While other artists used their platform to make political statements, Jelly Roll chose to share his story of overcoming a troubled past through the power of religion and his wife's support.

Why it matters

Jelly Roll's speech stood out in contrast to the politically charged moments throughout the Grammys ceremony. His message of faith and personal transformation resonated with viewers, particularly in the middle of the country, as an example of how redemption can come through belief and community support, rather than through political activism.

The details

As Jelly Roll accepted the award for Best Contemporary Country Album, he spoke about his past struggles with the criminal justice system and suicidal thoughts. He credited his wife and his faith in Jesus for helping him turn his life around. Jelly Roll held up a small Bible, saying it and a radio were all he had during a time when he was incarcerated in a 6-by-8-foot cell, and that these two things helped change his life.

  • Jelly Roll accepted his Grammy award on February 11, 2026.

The players

Jelly Roll

Also known as Jason DeFord, Jelly Roll is a country artist who won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Country Album in 2026. He spoke about his personal journey from a troubled past to finding redemption through his faith and family.

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What they’re saying

“First of all, Jesus, I hear you, and I'm listening. Lord, I am listening, Lord. Second of all, I want to thank my beautiful wife. I would have never changed my life without you. I would have ended up dead or in jail. I would have killed myself if it wasn't for you and Jesus. I thank you for that.”

— Jelly Roll, Country Artist (thealpenanews.com)

“There was a time in my life, y'all, that I was broken. That's why I wrote this album. I didn't think I had a chance, y'all. There were days that I thought the darkest things. I was a horrible human.”

— Jelly Roll, Country Artist (thealpenanews.com)

“Jesus is for everybody. Jesus is not owned by one political party. Jesus is not owned by no music label. Jesus is Jesus, and anybody can have a relationship with Him. I love you, Lord.”

— Jelly Roll, Country Artist (thealpenanews.com)

What’s next

Jelly Roll is expected to continue sharing his message of faith and redemption through his music and public appearances, potentially inspiring others who have faced similar challenges.

The takeaway

Jelly Roll's Grammys speech provided a powerful contrast to the politically charged moments of the ceremony, reminding viewers that true transformation can come through personal faith and community support, rather than through political activism or grandstanding.