Jelly Roll Reigns Supreme: Nashville Icon Takes Home Three Trophies at the 2026 GRAMMY Awards
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The 2026 GRAMMY Awards belonged to Nashville’s own Jelly Roll. On a night filled with glitz, glamour, and high-stakes performances at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, the BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville/Republic artist and BMG Nashville Publishing songwriter solidified his status as a music powerhouse by securing three major wins.
From the hallowed stage of the main telecast to the prestigious Premiere Ceremony, Jelly Roll’s presence was undeniable, marking a historic milestone for an artist whose journey from the streets of Antioch to the top of the charts continues to inspire millions.
A Triple Crown Achievement
The evening’s crowning jewel came during the CBS main broadcast when Jelly Roll was awarded the GRAMMY for Best Contemporary Country Album for his chart-topping release, Beautifully Broken. The award was presented by fellow BBR Music Group artist Lainey Wilson and legendary actor Jeff Goldblum, underscoring the deep respect Jelly Roll has earned across the industry.
However, the winning streak began much earlier in the day. During the Premiere Ceremony, Jelly Roll picked up his first two career GRAMMYs:
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Best Country Duo/Group Performance: For the hit collaboration “Amen” with Shaboozey.
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Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song: For “Hard Fought Hallelujah” alongside Brandon Lake. This track has been a cultural phenomenon, dominating Christian radio charts for months and previously winning Song of the Year at the DOVE Awards.
“To see a kid from where I came from standing here with these three trophies… it’s not just about the music, it’s about the message that you are never too far gone to change your life,” Jelly Roll shared in an emotional acceptance speech.
On the Road Again: THE BIG ASS STADIUM TOUR PART 2
Fans won’t have to wait long to celebrate these wins in person. It was recently confirmed that Jelly Roll will rejoin superstar Post Malone for the highly anticipated THE BIG ASS STADIUM TOUR PART 2.
The duo is set to take their high-energy, genre-bending performances to the biggest stages in the country starting this spring.
BMG Nashville Publishing Celebrates a Banner Night
While Jelly Roll led the charge, the night was a resounding success for the entire BMG Nashville Publishing family. Several other artists and songwriters under the BMG umbrella were recognized for their excellence across the musical spectrum:
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Best American Roots Song: “Ancient Light” – Sarah Jarosz, Aoife O’Donovan & Sara Watkins.
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Best Traditional Blues Album: Ain’t Done With the Blues – Buddy Guy.
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Best Folk Album: Wild And Clear Blue – I’m With Her (featuring Aoife O’Donovan).
The Man Behind the Music: About Jelly Roll
Jason DeFord, known professionally as Jelly Roll, is more than just a triple-GRAMMY® winner—he is a cultural shift. His latest album, Beautifully Broken, debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and marked his second consecutive #1 debut on the Billboard Country Album charts.
Critically acclaimed by Rolling Stone, Billboard, and NPR, the album features the massive hits “I Am Not Okay,” “Liar,” and “Heart of Stone.” Beyond the charts, Jelly Roll’s 2024/2025 season was defined by historic moments, including a performance of “Grace for the World” at the Vatican in Rome—the first live performance of its kind.
Despite his global stardom, Jelly Roll remains rooted in his mission of redemption and social impact. He continues to visit juvenile detention centers and rehabilitation facilities, recently donating a recording studio to the very center where he was once incarcerated.