Jelly Roll Delivers Powerful “In Memoriam” Tribute at the 76th Emmy Awards

On Sunday night, September 15, the 76th Emmy Awards paused for a deeply emotional moment — one that reminded everyone just how healing music can be. Rising country star Jelly Roll was chosen to perform during the In Memoriam segment, paying tribute to the entertainment industry icons who passed away over the past year.

As photos of beloved figures like Shannen Doherty, Richard Simmons, Gena Rowlands, Donald Sutherland, James Earl Jones, and Bob Newhart appeared on the screen behind him, Jelly Roll performed his poignant track “I Am Not Okay.”

A Moment of Music, Healing, and Heart

Before singing, Jelly Roll — whose real name is Jason DeFord — took a moment to speak directly to the audience. With his trademark authenticity, he offered words of comfort and hope:

“I believe that music is therapeutic. I believe that music can heal. I also believe that storytelling is just as cathartic. I hope that this song can act as a healing moment for those mourning the storytellers that we have lost this year. If you are feeling lost or alone tonight, I want you to know that it’s OK to not always be OK.”

As his voice filled the theater, a stillness fell over the crowd — not just from sadness, but from a shared connection. In that moment, Jelly Roll wasn’t just performing — he was holding space for every person grieving a loss.

Jelly Roll Soaks in the Moment

Earlier on the red carpet, Jelly Roll shared his excitement with PEOPLE and Entertainment Weekly:

“I’m watching everything I’m watching on my tour bus and living room right behind us. It’s the coolest experience ever.”

The performance marked a new milestone in his already remarkable journey — and sparked a new dream.

“I want to be in a TV show so I can come every year, dude. I’m calling all my country music friends to tell them we’re missing the mark. We gotta be at the Emmys.”

Country Stars Shine at the Emmys

Jelly Roll wasn’t the only country music favorite lighting up the Emmys this year. Reba McEntire also took the stage, presenting the award for Outstanding Scripted Variety Series alongside her longtime friend and Reba co-star Melissa Peterman.

The pair, known for their chemistry and comedic timing, walked the red carpet together and shared exciting news: they’re reuniting on screen for an upcoming sitcom titled “Happy’s Place.”

“We’ve been waiting a long time,” Peterman said. “It feels like we were waiting for the right cast, the right time, and we’re ready.”

A Night of Reflection, Resilience, and Country Soul

The 76th Emmy Awards weren’t just about trophies — they were about stories. Stories that continue even after the curtain falls.

And thanks to Jelly Roll’s heartfelt performance, the lives of those lost were honored in a way that felt deeply human, deeply sincere — and impossible to forget.

🎥 If you missed the moment, be sure to watch Jelly Roll’s stirring tribute below. It’s a performance that reminds us: it’s okay to not be okay… but we’re never alone. 💛