A Heartfelt Moment: Brooks & Dunn and Jelly Roll Unite for “Believe” at the 58th CMA Awards
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 legendary duo Brooks & Dunn took the stage to deliver a performance that would be remembered for years to come. They chose to perform their heartfelt 2005 hit “Believe,” but with a unique twist that included the rising star Jelly Roll. This collaboration was more than just a performance; it was a melding of generations and styles that highlighted the evolving landscape of country music.
The performance opened with Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, commanding the stage with a solo rendition of the opening verse. His presence was immediately captivating, drawing the audience in with his soulful and raw delivery. Jelly Roll, known for his ability to blend hip-hop influences with country storytelling, brought a fresh energy to the song. His emotional connection to the lyrics set a poignant tone, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his deep respect for the country genre.
As Jelly Roll progressed through the song, Kix Brooks joined him on the piano, adding a rich layer to the arrangement. Kix, one half of the Brooks & Dunn duo, brought his seasoned expertise to the performance, creating a seamless blend between the classic and contemporary sounds. The interplay between Jelly Roll’s modern vocals and Kix’s traditional country instrumentation highlighted the song’s timeless message of hope and resilience. The synergy between the two artists was evident, making the performance feel both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
Ronnie Dunn, the other half of Brooks & Dunn, made his entrance to enthusiastic applause, completing the trio. His powerful voice harmonized beautifully with Jelly Roll’s, especially during the chorus, where their voices intertwined to amplify the song’s emotional depth. Ronnie’s ability to convey profound emotion through his singing added another layer of richness to the performance. The addition of a live string section further enhanced the arrangement, providing a lush and dynamic backdrop that elevated the entire performance.
“Believe,” originally released on Brooks & Dunn’s “Hillbilly Deluxe” album, has long been a favorite among fans. The song’s narrative of faith and perseverance resonated deeply when it first debuted, earning 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 was evident in this performance, as the collaboration breathed new life into the classic track while staying true to its original essence. The song’s themes are universal, making it relatable to a wide audience and ensuring its place in country music history.
Jelly Roll’s career trajectory adds another layer of significance to this collaboration. Born in Nashville in 1986, Jelly Roll transitioned from a background in hip-hop to carve out a niche in country music, earning acclaim for his authentic storytelling and genre-blending style. His ability to navigate different musical landscapes has garnered him a diverse fan base and critical praise. Collaborating with established artists like Brooks & Dunn on their “Reboot II” album, released just days before the CMA Awards, underscores his rising prominence and the respect he commands within the industry.
The CMA Awards performance was met with widespread acclaim, not just for the musicality but for what it represented in the broader context of country music. Audience members were visibly moved, and critics praised the seamless blending of generations and styles. This collaboration highlighted the genre’s evolution, demonstrating that country music can honor its roots while embracing new influences and voices. The emotional depth of the performance was a testament to the artists’ genuine connection and shared reverence for the song’s message, creating a memorable moment that resonated deeply with all who witnessed it.
Brooks & Dunn, comprising Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, have been influential figures in country music since their debut in the early 1990s. With a string of chart-topping hits and dynamic performances, they have left an indelible mark on the genre. Their partnership, known for its chemistry and complementary talents, has been a driving force in their enduring success. 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 for future generations.
Jelly Roll’s involvement in this performance underscores his significant rise in the country music scene. His ability to convey deep emotion through his music has endeared him to a broad audience, and collaborations with established artists like Brooks & Dunn further solidify his place in the industry. His journey from a tumultuous past to mainstream success serves as an inspiring narrative of redemption and perseverance, mirroring the themes of the song “Believe.” This alignment of personal and musical journeys adds an extra layer of meaning to the performance, making it not just a rendition of a classic hit, but a celebration of overcoming adversity.
The “Believe” performance at the CMA Awards stands as a testament to the power of music to unite artists across different backgrounds and eras. It highlights the timeless nature of well-crafted songs and the importance of collaboration in keeping the genre vibrant and relevant. The emotional resonance of the performance left a lasting impression on all who witnessed it, reaffirming the enduring appeal of country music’s storytelling tradition. This moment encapsulated the essence of what makes country music special: its ability to tell meaningful stories that resonate across generations.
In the days following the CMA Awards, the performance continued to garner attention, with many praising the seamless blend of traditional and contemporary elements. Social media buzzed with clips and praise, further cementing the performance’s place in country music lore. Fans appreciated how the collaboration served as a bridge between generations, showcasing the genre’s rich history while embracing its evolving nature. The performance became a talking point not just for its musical excellence, but for what it represented in the broader narrative of country music’s ongoing story.
For those who missed the live broadcast, the performance was made available online, allowing fans around the world to experience the emotional depth and artistry that made this collaboration a standout moment in the 2024 CMA Awards. Streaming platforms ensured that the performance reached a wide audience, enabling fans to relive the powerful rendition and share it within their communities. As country music continues to evolve, performances like this highlight the genre’s ability to honor its past while embracing new voices and perspectives, ensuring its relevance and appeal for years to come.
Brooks & Dunn’s decision to collaborate with Jelly Roll on “Believe” not only honored their own legacy but also signaled a forward-looking approach to country music. By pairing their classic sound with Jelly Roll’s contemporary style, they demonstrated that country music is a living, breathing genre capable of growth and adaptation. This collaboration serves as an inspiring example for other artists, showing that blending different styles and generations can create something truly special and enduring. The performance at the CMA Awards was more than just a tribute to a beloved song; it was a celebration of the genre’s ability to evolve while staying true to its core values of faith, hope, and resilience.
