Grown Men Cried Openly: Brooks & Dunn and Jelly Roll’s Powerful CMA Performance of “Believe”

At the 58th Annual Country Music Association (CMA) 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.