Jelly Roll fans liken his live performances to a church revival. The rapper-turned-country sensation has battled addiction, neglect, poverty, and prison. These struggles not only made Jerry his role a stronger person, but also made him an unforgettable performer. That trademark passion was on full display at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards on Monday (April 1).
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Jelly Roll performs with Laney Wilson
By the time Jelly Roll took the stage at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, anticipation had long been building. It started with the “Need a Favor” singer herself.
“I’m so excited to be performing at this year’s iHeart Radio Music Awards!” Jelly Roll (real name Jason Deford) wrote on X/Twitter.
Fans shared the artist’s enthusiasm. “Your talent will set the stage on fire. I can’t wait to hear your heartfelt beats!” one user commented. “Live Countdown: From T-minus to pure joy!”
Another fan added: “This is going to be so good.”
And it was. Jelly Roll and Laney Wilson gave it their all for their hit duet “Save Me.”
The performance earned a standing ovation from the audience and received positive reviews on the internet.
The genre-defying artist won eight awards, becoming the most nominated country act of the night. But it wasn’t just his contributions to country music that he was recognized for. Jelly Roll was the only artist nominated in the Best New Artist Country, Alternative, Rock, or Pop category.
Additionally, the “Son of a Sinner” singer earned the second-most nominations of the night, tied with SZA and 21 Savage. The trio trailed only pop superstar Taylor Swift, who was nominated nine times.
What is the “Save Me” singer’s pre-show ritual?
Despite Jelly Roll’s passion on stage, his backstage moments are surprisingly subdued.Grammy nominee recently interviewed American weekly magazine About his pre-show ritual.
“We listen to music and hang out before the show,” he said. “Then… before we go on stage, the whole band and team pray in a circle and get excited to go out and play.”
Of course, the Jelly Roll ceremony wouldn’t be complete without Bunny Zaw, to whom the artist has been married since 2016. “And a kiss from his wife,” he added.
(Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)
