Jelly Roll Criticized for MAGA Grammys Speech After Bad Bunny Remark
Country musician Jelly Roll faced significant criticism following his speech at the 2026 Grammy Awards. While accepting his first Grammy, he won multiple honors, including Best Country Duo/Group Performance and Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance. His wins marked a significant moment in his career, especially after a remarkable 300-pound weight loss.
Emotional Speech and MAGA Backlash
During his acceptance speech, Jelly Roll delivered an emotional message of gratitude, emphasizing his faith in God and the support of his wife and record label. He held a Bible while discussing his past struggles and his belief in the transformative power of music and faith. However, his speech was met with accusations of being “very MAGA,” particularly after he made comments regarding Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance.
Grammy Ceremony Highlights
- Date: 2026 Grammy Awards
- Location: Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena
- Hosted by: Trevor Noah
- Notable Performers: Justin Bieber, Clipse & Pharrell Williams, Sabrina Carpenter, and more.
Jelly Roll suggested that country music should be featured in the Super Bowl halftime show, a notion that garnered mixed reactions. Many viewers voiced disappointment that he did not address the escalating violence surrounding ICE during his speech, which further fueled the backlash.
Social Media Reactions
Critics on social media expressed their discontent with Jelly Roll’s remarks. Many felt that he misused the platform to promote a political agenda rather than address pressing social issues. Some comments included strong disapproval, asserting that his message was inconsistent with true Christian values.
Nominee Highlights and Musical Landscape
The 68th Grammy Awards featured top contenders, with Sabrina Carpenter and Lady Gaga leading nominations with five each. Other notable nominees included Bad Bunny and Kendrick Lamar, both with four nominations. The night promised to be filled with surprises, but Jelly Roll’s performance and speech remained a focal point.
As the music world celebrated its achievements, Jelly Roll’s comments and the ensuing controversies highlighted the complex relationship between music, politics, and personal identity in today’s society.
