Bunnie DeFord took to Instagram to congratulate and support her husband, Jelly Roll, following his big win at the CMA Awards on November 8. Jelly Roll was nominated for five awards, took home New Artist of the Year, and gave an electric speech that showed just how much his growth in the industry—and in life—has meant to him.
Videos by American Songwriter
His wife’s post, though, carries a heartfelt message accompanied by images of the two on the CMA Awards red carpet. “What do you say to the man you’ve said everything to? 8 years & 3 months. That’s how long I’ve watched your metamorphosis,” she began. “From street kid to philanthropist. You my sweet cherubic boy are the true definition of perseverance, grit & diligence … While friends around you were sky rocketing in an industry you wanted so badly to be accepted by, you graciously supported, loved & cheered them on. They ALL (the industry) told you no & you humbly said, ‘Watch this.’
“Sleepless nights, bad deals, a few tears & days you wanted to give up,” she continued. “No matter how dark it got, one thing you never lost was that celestial glittering light that’s embedded in your soul. Nothing is a mistake. God has you right where he needs you. You’ve got the universe in a chokehold.”
She then added her congratulations, writing, “You deserve it all you ethereal cosmic being. Here’s to holding their attention, giving them something to talk about, defying all odds & showing people that you can be a rough around the edges lightworker.”
Jelly Roll also posted his reaction to the win on social media, sharing his gratitude with fans, friends, and family. “Thank y’all,” he began. “I’m overwhelmed with the love I’ve received today. On country music’s biggest night, I was blessed with 60 seconds to tell the world how I felt and I’m honored that 60 seconds inspired someone somewhere.”
His speech was definitely an inspiring one. “There’s something poetic about a 39-year-old man winning New Artist of the Year,” he passionately began as he accepted his award Wednesday. “I don’t know where you’re at in your life or what you’re going through, but I want to tell you to keep going. I want to tell you that success is on the other side of it.”
Photo by Jason Davis/WireImage
