Jelly Roll Celebrates Going “From Rock Bottom to Holy Ground” After Meeting Pope Leo
From a prison cell to St. Peter’s Square, Jelly Roll is living proof that redemption stories can rewrite themselves in ways no one could predict.
The country superstar — once a troubled teen arrested over 40 times on drug-related charges — is now celebrating one of the most extraordinary moments of his career: meeting Pope Leo during a historic concert at the Vatican.
“From Rock Bottom to Holy Ground”
Jelly Roll shared the emotional moment with fans on Instagram, posting a photo of himself beaming while shaking the Pope’s hand. His caption said it all: “From rock bottom to holy ground.”
The milestone marked yet another chapter in his journey from addiction and incarceration to becoming one of the most beloved and inspirational artists in country music. His struggles have always fueled his songs — from “Need a Favor” to “Save Me” to “I Am Not Okay” — making him a voice for those fighting their own battles.
Grace for the World: A Concert Like No Other
The meeting with Pope Leo happened because Jelly Roll was invited to perform at the Grace for the World concert in Vatican City. Held on September 13, 2025, the first-of-its-kind event drew a staggering 253,000 people to St. Peter’s Square and was streamed globally on Disney+.
The star-studded lineup included Pharrell Williams with the Voices of Fire Choir, Andrea Bocelli, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Karol G, Il Volo, Teddy Swims, Clipse, BamBam, and Angélique Kidjo.
Standing among some of the world’s greatest voices, Jelly Roll delivered a moving performance of “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” a song originally by Christian artist Brandon Lake, later remixed with Jelly earlier in 2025. That version is currently nominated for CMA Musical Event of the Year.
A Moment of Healing in Song
Though Brandon Lake wasn’t present, Jelly carried the song solo, pouring grit, pain, and hope into every line. Videos show the crowd swaying, some with tears in their eyes, as he lifted his voice under the shadow of St. Peter’s Basilica.
The set ended in a show-stopping surprise: Jennifer Hudson joining Jelly onstage to sing a soul-shaking rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” Together, they transformed one of music’s most iconic songs into a moment of spiritual catharsis for the massive audience.
Redemption as a Legacy
For Jelly Roll, the night was more than a career highlight. It was a testimony.
A man once barred from leaving the U.S. due to felony convictions is now singing gospel-infused country music on one of the most sacred stages in the world. “From rock bottom to holy ground” wasn’t just a caption — it was the truth of his journey, lived in real time.
And while his music has always been about pain, hope, and healing, his Vatican City performance proved something bigger: that grace can meet you anywhere — even in a prison cell, even in a song, even in front of 253,000 people.
The full performance is available to stream now on Disney+ as part of the Grace for the World concert special.