Shaboozey and Jelly Roll Move the ACMs With a Soul-Stirring “Amen” and a Powerful Testimony of Faith

The 2025 ACM Awards delivered plenty of unforgettable moments, but few stirred the soul quite like the emotional, gospel-tinged collaboration between Shaboozey and Jelly Roll. The duo’s performance of their new track “Amen” brought a wave of spiritual energy to the stage, leaving the audience on its feet and visibly moved.

The segment began with Jelly Roll’s electrifying solo rendition of “Heart of Stone,” a gritty, heartfelt anthem backed by his full band. As the final chords faded, the spotlight shifted to Shaboozey, who was positioned with a gospel choir on a stage surrounded by the audience. As Jelly Roll made his way through the crowd—greeting fellow country stars Wynonna Judd and Lainey Wilson—he joined Shaboozey for a rousing, faith-filled performance of “Amen.”

At the conclusion, Jelly Roll offered a powerful impromptu message about God’s grace that resonated deeply with the live crowd and viewers alike. He capped it off by wishing Shaboozey a happy birthday, adding a joyful and personal touch to an already emotional moment.

Shaboozey, a first-time ACM Awards nominee, was in the spotlight for his breakthrough success this year. Though he didn’t win New Male Artist of the Year—a title awarded to Zach Top—he earned a major nomination for Single of the Year for his viral hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” from his acclaimed album Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going. The deluxe version of the album now features “Amen” alongside collaborations with Sierra Ferrell and Myles Smith.

Meanwhile, Jelly Roll, already a fan favorite and ACM Awards veteran, returned this year with nominations for Entertainer of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, and Album of the Year for Beautifully Broken. The album, which took 18 months to complete, is a raw and honest exploration of mental health, addiction, and healing. “Every lyric I fought for,” Jelly Roll told Rolling Stone. “This was about redemption, pain, and the process of healing.”

In addition to his musical success, Jelly Roll has made headlines offstage for his efforts to turn his life around. The Tennessee Board of Parole recently recommended a full pardon for his past convictions—an inspiring development for the artist who has become a beacon of hope for those seeking redemption. His case now sits with Governor Bill Lee, who will decide whether to grant the pardon.

Regardless of the final decision, Jelly Roll remains focused on using his story to uplift others. “I want to be an inspiration to people who are now where I used to be,” he said. “To show that change is possible through music, faith, and grace.”

The 2025 ACM Awards may have celebrated the best in country music, but this moment between Shaboozey and Jelly Roll reminded everyone of something even greater—the power of redemption, faith, and unity through song.