Faith and Emotion Collide: Brooks & Dunn and Jelly Roll Deliver an Unforgettable CMA Performance
At the 58th Annual Country Music Association Awards, held on November 20, 2024, at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, the legendary duo Brooks & Dunn delivered a poignant performance of their 2005 hit “Believe,” joined by rising star Jelly Roll. This collaboration seamlessly blended the duo’s classic country sound with Jelly Roll’s soulful vocals, creating a memorable moment that resonated deeply with the audience.
The performance began with Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, taking the stage solo. His heartfelt rendition of the opening verse set an emotional tone, captivating the audience with his raw and powerful delivery. As the song progressed, Kix Brooks accompanied him on piano, adding depth to the arrangement. The chemistry between the artists was palpable, highlighting the timeless nature of the song’s message.
Ronnie Dunn then joined the duo on stage, his entrance met with enthusiastic applause. Together, Dunn and Jelly Roll harmonized through the chorus, their voices intertwining to convey the song’s themes of faith and perseverance. The addition of a live string section further enriched the performance, creating a lush backdrop that complemented the vocalists’ emotive delivery.
“Believe,” originally released on Brooks & Dunn’s “Hillbilly Deluxe” album, has been a staple in their repertoire, earning accolades including the CMA Awards for Single of the Year, Song of the Year, and Music Video of the Year in 2006. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its narrative of hope and resilience, themes that resonated anew in this collaborative performance. The rendition not only honored the original but also infused it with a fresh perspective, bridging the gap between generations of country music fans.
Jelly Roll, a Nashville native born in 1986, has experienced a remarkable career trajectory. Transitioning from hip-hop to country music, he has garnered acclaim for his authentic storytelling and genre-blending style. His collaboration with Brooks & Dunn on “Believe” is featured on their “Reboot II” album, released on November 15, 2024, which pairs the duo with contemporary artists to reimagine their classic hits. This project has been praised for its innovative approach, revitalizing Brooks & Dunn’s legacy while introducing their music to a new audience.
The CMA Awards performance was met with widespread acclaim, with many audience members visibly moved. The collaboration was praised for bridging generational gaps within country music, showcasing the genre’s evolution while honoring its roots. The emotional depth of the performance was highlighted by the artists’ genuine connection and shared reverence for the song’s message. Social media platforms buzzed with positive reactions, with fans lauding the seamless blend of traditional and modern elements.
Brooks & Dunn, consisting of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, have been influential figures in country music since their debut in the early 1990s. Known for their dynamic performances and a string of chart-topping hits, they have left an indelible mark on the genre. Their willingness to collaborate with newer artists like Jelly Roll demonstrates their commitment to fostering the genre’s growth and inclusivity. Over the decades, Brooks & Dunn have evolved their sound, incorporating contemporary influences while maintaining their signature style.
Jelly Roll’s involvement in this performance underscores his rising prominence 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. With a discography that spans multiple genres, Jelly Roll brings a unique flavor to country music, appealing to both traditionalists and modern listeners.
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. Critics have noted that such collaborations are essential for the genre’s continued vitality, offering fresh interpretations while respecting its foundational elements.
In the days following the CMA Awards, the performance has continued to garner attention, with many praising the seamless blend of traditional and contemporary elements. It serves as a reminder of the genre’s rich history and its capacity to evolve while staying true to its core themes of faith, hope, and resilience. The collaboration between Brooks & Dunn and Jelly Roll on “Believe” exemplifies the enduring power of country music to touch hearts and bridge generational divides. Music charts have reflected this sentiment, with the performance driving streams and downloads, further cementing its impact.
For those who missed the live broadcast, the performance is available to watch online, allowing fans to experience the emotional depth and artistry that made this collaboration a standout moment in the 2024 CMA Awards. As country music continues to evolve, performances like this highlight the genre’s ability to honor its past while embracing new voices and perspectives. The accessibility of such performances online ensures that the magic of live events can be shared with a global audience, fostering a sense of community among fans.
The success of “Believe” has also sparked conversations about the future of country music collaborations. Industry experts suggest that projects like “Reboot II” could pave the way for more cross-generational partnerships, encouraging established artists to work with emerging talents. This trend not only revitalizes classic hits but also provides a platform for new voices to shine, enriching the genre with diverse influences and fresh ideas. The positive reception of Brooks & Dunn and Jelly Roll’s performance indicates a promising future for such endeavors.
Behind the scenes, the preparation for the performance was meticulous. The artists worked closely with producers to ensure that the arrangement honored the original while allowing each performer to bring their unique strengths to the table. The live string section, arranged specifically for this performance, added a layer of sophistication and depth that elevated the overall sound. The harmonious blend of instruments and vocals created a rich auditory experience that captivated the audience from start to finish.
Brooks & Dunn’s decision to collaborate with Jelly Roll reflects a broader trend within the music industry, where boundaries between genres are increasingly fluid. By integrating elements of hip-hop and soul into their performance, the duo showcased their versatility and openness to experimentation. This approach not only broadens their appeal but also contributes to the ongoing evolution of country music, ensuring its relevance in a rapidly changing musical landscape.
Jelly Roll’s presence on stage with Brooks & Dunn also highlighted the importance of mentorship and mutual respect in the music industry. Both artists have spoken about the influence they’ve had on each other’s careers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. This mutual support is evident in their performance, where each artist complements the other’s strengths, resulting in a harmonious and powerful rendition of “Believe.”
The emotional impact of the performance was further amplified by the audience’s engagement. Fans swayed in unison, singing along to familiar lyrics while new listeners connected with the heartfelt delivery. The atmosphere in Bridgestone Arena was electric, a testament to the universal language of music and its ability to bring people together. The performance not only celebrated the legacy of Brooks & Dunn but also underscored the timelessness of their music, proving that great songs can transcend eras and continue to inspire.
As the night concluded, the lasting impression of the “Believe” performance lingered, sparking discussions about future collaborations and the ongoing legacy of Brooks & Dunn. The duo’s ability to adapt and collaborate with new artists like Jelly Roll ensures that their influence will endure, shaping the future of country music for years to come. Fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead, confident that Brooks & Dunn will continue to deliver performances that are both nostalgic and innovative, honoring their past while embracing the future.
