: Jelly Roll Explains Grammys ICE Silence: ‘Disconnected Dumb Redneck’

After catching heat over his Grammys speech, praising the Lord and calling himself “disconnected and dumb,” Jelly Roll, 41, is now facing renewed criticism for declining to comment on U.S. politics and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The moment has sparked intense conversation online, especially as more artists use award-show stages to speak on social issues.

At the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 1, Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord, picked up his first-ever Grammys. His initial win came in the Best Country Duo/Group Performance category for his feature on Shaboozey’s “Amen.” He later took home trophies for Best Contemporary Country Album for Beautifully Broken—the first winner in the newly introduced category—and Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for Brandon Lake’s “Hard Fought Hallelujah.”

During his album acceptance speech, Jelly Roll centered his remarks on faith and gratitude while sidestepping political commentary. He thanked his wife, Bunnie XO, and reflected on surviving incarceration, addiction, and deep personal struggle, crediting music and spirituality with changing the course of his life.

“I know they’re going to try to kick me off here, so just let me try to get this out. First of all, Jesus, I hear you and I’m listening… I believed that music had the power to change my life, and God had the power to change my life… Jesus is for everybody… I love you, Lord!”

His decision not to address ICE or immigration policy left many viewers questioning why he stayed silent while other winners spoke out. Online reactions included criticism from artists such as Kehlani, Billie Eilish, Bad Bunny, SZA, and Shaboozey, adding fuel to the broader debate about celebrity responsibility during politically charged moments.

When later pressed about the omission, Jelly Roll pointed to his upbringing and limited engagement with politics as reasons for his hesitation. He described growing up in chaos, spending time incarcerated, and only recently reconnecting with the outside world.

“So, this is the truth… people shouldn’t care to hear my opinion… I’m so disconnected from what’s happening… We’re just trying to find a way to survive… I have a lot to say about it and I’m going to within the next week, and everybody’s going to hear exactly what I have to say about it.”

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