11-Year-Old Girl Amazes Pittsburgh Audience by Singing Lainey Wilson’s Verse of “Save Me” Live with Jelly Roll
On August 15, 2023, during a performance at the Pavilion at Star Lake near Pittsburgh, Jelly Roll created an unforgettable memory by inviting 11-year-old Josie Salvitti onstage to perform “Save Me.” She had brought a sign asking to sing Lainey Wilson’s part, and Jelly Roll, moved by her courage and excitement, paused the show and welcomed her into the spotlight for a duet that would soon capture hearts everywhere.
The crowd of more than 26,000 roared with excitement as Josie climbed onto the stage, a white cowboy hat perched proudly on her head and a smile stretching ear to ear. Her excitement was contagious, and the moment instantly shifted the energy of the night. Fans leaned in, phones up, anticipating a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
As the first chords of “Save Me” played, Josie stepped up to the mic and delivered Lainey Wilson’s part with incredible poise. Her voice rang out clear and confident, perfectly complementing Jelly Roll’s deeper, emotional tones. The entire crowd was visibly stunned—not just by the moment, but by the talent she brought with her.
Jelly Roll stood beside her beaming, offering encouragement and nodding with pride as Josie powered through the verses. His support was gentle but proud, allowing her to shine. The two locked into a rhythm that felt natural, like they’d been performing together for years. The crowd fed off that chemistry, growing louder with every note.
What made this performance so touching was the authenticity of the moment. It wasn’t choreographed or rehearsed—it was raw, spontaneous, and deeply moving. Jelly Roll didn’t just give Josie a spotlight; he gave her a memory that would last forever. And in doing so, he reminded everyone why live music can be so powerful.
The crowd’s cheers reached a deafening roar by the time they hit the chorus. The stadium pulsed with the kind of energy only genuine emotion can produce. Fans clapped, cried, and sang along, swept up in the story unfolding before them. The duet had become more than just a performance—it was a shared experience.
In the days following, videos of the performance went viral, spreading quickly across social media. Fans and celebrities alike praised Jelly Roll’s kindness and Josie’s bravery. Her voice, her smile, and her unshakable spirit captured the internet’s attention. For many, it was a needed reminder of joy, connection, and the magic of music.
Josie later shared her thoughts on the experience, calling Jelly Roll “the nicest guy you’ll ever meet.” Her posts, filled with gratitude and excitement, reflected the sincerity of a young girl who lived out her dream in front of thousands. She also hinted at wanting to sing with him again, and fans are hoping it happens.
Jelly Roll has long been known for connecting with his audience, but this moment in Pittsburgh showed a different level of heart. It wasn’t just about performing—it was about listening, noticing, and acting on what really matters. His ability to turn a sign in the crowd into a stage moment speaks volumes about who he is.
For Josie, that night may have been a spark—the beginning of a lifelong love for performing, music, or even storytelling. Her confidence and presence inspired young fans everywhere to dream a little bigger. If an 11-year-old girl can step up in front of 26,000 people and sing her heart out, anything feels possible.
As for Jelly Roll, this moment will likely follow him for years to come, not just as a highlight of his tour, but as one of the most memorable, human things he’s ever done onstage. The story continues to inspire not because of its fame, but because of its heart.
The performance has now been watched by millions online, and continues to gather love from fans who were either there in person or witnessing it from afar. It’s become one of the standout memories of the Backroad Baptism Tour, cementing its place in Jelly Roll’s legacy of honest, heartfelt music.
What happened in Pittsburgh wasn’t rehearsed or expected. It was real. A connection between artist and fan, old soul and young dreamer, and a crowd that was lucky enough to watch it unfold. These are the kinds of moments that make live shows unforgettable.
Josie’s voice, her courage, and Jelly Roll’s generosity came together in one of the most beautiful duets of the year. But more than anything, it became a story shared by all who saw it—one that reminds us why music matters, and why kindness always takes center stage.
