Jelly Roll and Ernest Share the Importance of Honoring the Country Music Legends Who Came Before Them

There is no denying that country music went through some major changes over the last few years. While always a pillar in the music industry, country music watched as stars like Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll, and Morgan Wallen appeared to take over the genre. Not to mention, country music welcomed both Post Malone and Beyonce. With a great deal of growth, Jelly Roll and Ernest recently discussed the legacy of country music and the importance of honoring those who came before them. 

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Appearing on the Bussin’ With The Boys podcast, Jelly Roll and Ernest talked about a wide range of topics including performing at the Grand Ole Opry and even Jelly Roll’s health. But when it came to the legacy of country music, the conversation shifted. Not only wanting to build a career in country music, but Ernest never wanted to forget the past. “In the grand scheme of things, I guess it doesn’t matter. But it’s something that matters to me, and I appreciate and gravitate towards the people that it does matter to. I feel like it is our responsibility… I like doing covers of old records to keep those alive.”

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Jelly Roll Remembers His Second Grande Ole Opry Performance

Recalling some wise words from Jamey Johnson, Ernest added, “He’s like, ‘As country singers, it is our responsibility to keep the spirit of those before us alive through songs.’” The singer continued, “Whether it be writing in that spirit, or covering those songs. Those songs are meant to be sung. They don’t have to just belong to Merle Haggard. The lifespan of a song has no cap on it. It’s gonna outlive all of us either way.”

As for Jelly Roll, he also touched on those who helped inspire his career in country music, like Waylon Jennings. Recalling his performance at the Grand Ole Opry, he explained, “My second Grand Ole Opry performance, I sang Waylon. Because it was important to me. Like he said, in the grand scheme of things it doesn’t matter, and to the community, it matters to some. I just love country music. Always have. We flock towards the people (that know their history).”

While helping bring a new era to country music, Jelly Roll and Ernest aren’t about to forget the past and those who solidified country as a top genre.

(Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Invictus Games Foundation via Getty Images)