Jelly Roll Moves Opry Audience to Tears by Bringing Schoolchildren On Stage for Heartwarming Duet
An unforgettable moment for mental health awareness and country music history
Country music sensation Jelly Roll just turned a dream into reality for a group of elementary school students—and gave the Grand Ole Opry one of its most heartfelt moments in recent memory. 🌟
On Thursday night, June 5, the Opry stage in Nashville, Tennessee lit up with a star-studded lineup to help kick off CMA Fest 2025. But among all the big names and powerful performances, one moment stole the show—and the hearts of everyone watching.
A Surprise That No One Expected
After delivering a stirring duet with Brandon Lake on their collaboration “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” Jelly Roll paused the show for something truly special. He invited a group of elementary school students from Ruby Major Elementary School to join him on stage.
The kids weren’t just there to smile—they were there to sing alongside Jelly Roll on his chart-topping, mental-health anthem “I Am Not Okay.”
Released as the lead single from his Beautifully Broken album, “I Am Not Okay” has become a rallying cry for those battling anxiety, depression, and emotional trauma. The song hit No. 1 on the Country Airplay chart, earned Platinum certification from the RIAA, and even received a Grammy nomination for Best Country Song.
The Story Behind the Moment
Before the children stepped on stage, Jelly Roll shared the moving backstory.
He first heard about the students after they performed “I Am Not Okay” for teens at Antioch High School, where students had tragically experienced a school shooting earlier this year. Touched by their courage and inspired by their message, Jelly Roll knew he had to meet them—and sing with them.
“Ever since I heard what they did, I’ve been dreaming of singing this song with them,” Jelly Roll told the crowd. “Tonight at the Opry just felt like the right place.”
A Performance That Brought The Crowd To Tears
As the children walked on stage, Jelly Roll greeted each one with a high five. Then, standing shoulder to shoulder, they began to sing.
With the lyrics echoing throughout the Opry House, the moment became more than a performance—it became a message. A message of healing. Of hope. Of unity.
As the final chorus approached, Jelly Roll stepped away from the mic, letting the children finish the song on their own. The crowd erupted in cheers, some in tears, witnessing what was truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Watch the emotional performance below as Ruby Major Elementary students take the stage with Jelly Roll at the Grand Ole Opry.
@theeasttexaspickers Jelly Roll brings special guests from Ruby Major Elementary to perform “I Am Not Okay” at Grand Ole Opry. #sourcingandsightseeing #theeasttexaspickers #grandoleopry #jellyroll #fyp ♬ original sound – theeasttexaspickers
