Jelly Roll stole the spotlight at the 2026 Grammy Awards, not just for winning, but for his unapologetically religious acceptance speech.
The country star’s decision to publicly thank Jesus during his moment on stage sparked a heated debate online, with some critics labeling his heartfelt words as “religious psychosis.”
The 41-year-old singer-songwriter stepped up to accept the Best Contemporary Country Album award for his 2024 album Beautifully Broken at Sunday night’s ceremony in Los Angeles.
His album triumphed over big names like Miranda Lambert, Tyler Childers, Eric Church, and Kelsea Ballerini, cementing his place in country music’s elite.
Faith Front and Center
During his emotional speech, Jelly Roll made it clear that his faith had played a central role in his life and music.
Holding up a small Bible for the audience, he told the star-studded crowd, “I believe that music had the power to change my life, and God had the power to change my life.
Jesus is for everybody; Jesus is not owned by one political party or label. Jesus is Jesus.”
Many fans were moved by his candor, praising him for openly sharing his spiritual journey.
However, critics on social media were quick to attack, with some linking his speech and weight loss—nearly 300 pounds over several years—to erratic behavior.
One X user commented, “That GLP-1 really fast-tracked the religious psychosis for Jelly Roll, huh?” while another wrote, “Now the face tattoos and Jesus talk seem even more menacing.”
A Personal Triumph
Jelly Roll also used his moment in the spotlight to honor his wife, Bunnie Xo, who played a pivotal role in helping him turn his life around.
Before fame, he struggled with substance abuse and had spent time in prison for offenses including aggravated robbery and drug possession.
“I would’ve ended up dead or in jail. I would’ve killed myself if it weren’t for you and Jesus,” Jelly Roll admitted to Bunnie Xo in the audience.
He explained that his experiences of hardship inspired Beautifully Broken, an album born from his darkest days and his journey toward redemption.
Grammy Night Highlights Beyond Jelly Roll
While Jelly Roll’s speech dominated social media chatter, the 2026 Grammys were filled with memorable moments and other standout winners.
- Bad Bunny took home Album of the Year for DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, delivering a politically charged message against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He began his speech for Best Música Urbana Album by saying “ICE out,” dedicating his award to immigrants who left their homelands in pursuit of dreams.
- Billie Eilish, winning Song of the Year for WILDFLOWER, emphasized social justice issues in her speech, stating, “No one is illegal on stolen land,” before a censored shout-out against ICE.
- Olivia Dean, the new British sensation, won Best New Artist and honored her immigrant grandmother, reflecting on the bravery of her family and the role it played in her journey to stardom.
- Kendrick Lamar, a nine-time nominee, earned Record of the Year for luther featuring SZA, while also winning Best Rap Album for GNX, bringing his career Grammy total to 27.
- Lady Gaga claimed Best Pop Vocal Album for MAYHEM and Best Dance Pop Recording for Abracadabra, continuing her streak of critical and commercial success.
More Wins and Highlights Across Genres
The night also celebrated a variety of music genres and powerful performances:
- Shaboozey & Jelly Roll won Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for Amen.
- Tyla took Best African Music Performance, while Caetano Veloso & Maria Bethânia earned Best Global Music Album.
- Jazz, classical, gospel, Latin, and other categories were honored, highlighting a diverse field of winners such as Samara Joy, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Yolanda Adams, and Grupo Frontera.
The Grammy Awards 2026 proved to be a night of artistic triumph, personal revelations, and bold statements, with stars using the stage to celebrate music, faith, and social justice alike.
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