It was an eventful evening for upcoming artist Jelly Roll as he accepted the CMA Awards for 2023. On Wednesday, the Country artist opened the show along with Wynonna Judd, a surprise guest. To top it all, he also gave an inspiring speech. Jelly Roll was joined by Wynonna Judd in a sensitive performance of Need a Favor. The set resembled a church as Jelly Roll teamed up with a choir even as Judd joined him. The duet was a pleasant surprise for the audience.
As his name was announced, he gave Bunny Xo, his wife a kiss and hugged Zach Bryan, his fellow nominee before going on stage even as Need a Favor played in the background. Roll was back on stage later as he accepted his CMA Awards and spoke about the poetical nature of someone aged 39 winning the award for New Artist.
He addressed the audience as he said that whatever stage a person was in their life, they need to go on as success is within reach. He drew the analogy of a windshield and a wiper, telling the audience that what is before them is always more significant than what they have left behind.
Jelly Roll Has Been The Most Nominated Artist This Year With 5 Nominations
It has been an eventful year for the tattooed songwriter-singer-rapper. He has been the highest nominated artist at the awards this year with 5 nominations. His debut album Whitsitt Chapel has won for male video and Breakthrough Video, and also digital first performance for Son of a Sinner at the CMT Awards.
Jelly Roll was the final act of the night as well as singing Love Can Build a Bridge with K. Michelle and the Fisk Jubilee Singers. Jelly Roll suffered a minor setback, but it was offstage. He dropped his trophy for the New Artist of the Year after leaving the stage. The glass trophy was damaged beyond repair. But he has been assured of a replacement, so he will not have to grieve for long.