Jelly Roll Gives Thanks to God During Surprise CMA Fest Performances with Shaboozey and Brandon Lake

Jelly Roll Delivers Unforgettable Moments of Faith and Emotion at CMA Fest 2025

On the evening of June 6, Jelly Roll took the stage in Nashville for two surprise performances that added heart, soul, and spiritual depth to this year’s CMA Fest. Known for blending genres and emotions with ease, the chart-topping artist moved a crowd of tens of thousands with moments that were both musically powerful and deeply personal.

JELLY ROLL AND SHABOOZEY UNITE FOR A POWERFUL PERFORMANCE OF “AMEN”

The first surprise of the night came when Jelly Roll joined forces with Shaboozey to perform their compelling track “Amen.” Delivered in front of a packed Nissan Stadium, the performance felt less like a typical set and more like a moment of shared testimony.

The raw, emotional lyrics—

“Somebody say a prayer for me / ’Cause the pills ran out and I still can’t sleep…”
—resonated with the audience, many of whom responded with raised hands, knowing nods, and heartfelt applause.

“Amen” is featured on the deluxe edition of Shaboozey’s 2024 release Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going, which dropped on May 31. The track has gained widespread attention following appearances at Stagecoach, the ACM Awards, and now CMA Fest, where its themes of struggle, redemption, and hope clearly struck a chord with fans.

Worship Takes Center Stage: Jelly Roll and Brandon Lake Move Hearts at CMA Fest 2025

As the evening at CMA Fest 2025 unfolded, one of the most powerful moments came when Jelly Roll returned to the stage, this time joined by Christian artist Brandon Lake. Together, they delivered a deeply emotional performance of their duet, “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” transforming the atmosphere from concert excitement to heartfelt worship.

With voices united and a radiant cross glowing above the stage, the crowd of thousands fell into a moment of stillness and reverence. Hands were lifted, tears were shed, and voices joined in harmony—a rare and sacred pause in the midst of a major festival.

“We love you, Lord. Thank you for letting us testify tonight at the CMA Fest, Father God,” Jelly Roll said, his voice breaking with emotion.

A SONG BORN FROM STRUGGLE AND SPIRIT

Brandon Lake later revealed that the collaboration was no coincidence. He was intentional about choosing Jelly Roll for this powerful track.

“I wanted to share this song with someone whose journey reflected real struggle and redemption,” Lake told K-LOVE. “Jelly was the first person who came to mind.”

Their performance at CMA Fest solidified the song’s place as more than just a musical piece—it’s a testimony that speaks to the power of transformation and faith.

JELLY ROLL’S JOURNEY: FROM PRISON WALLS TO PRAISE STAGES

Jelly Roll’s path to the stage hasn’t been traditional. Incarcerated in his youth for drug-related charges and robbery, he’s since emerged as a symbol of redemption and resilience. His willingness to speak openly about his past has given hope to many navigating their own battles.

“From a jail cell to a K-LOVE Award — that’s something only God can do,” he said during an emotional acceptance speech after winning Song of the Year with Brandon Lake.

With every performance, Jelly Roll brings more than talent—he brings a living story of grace, healing, and second chances.