Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll Move Audiences with Emotional Performance of “Hard Fought Hallelujah” on Jimmy Kimmel Live!
In a standout moment for both country and gospel music, Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll joined forces for a powerful live performance of their song “Hard Fought Hallelujah” on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on April 17, 2025. Their collaboration brought together Lake’s gospel soul and Jelly Roll’s gritty country style, creating a performance that left viewers deeply moved.
“Hard Fought Hallelujah” speaks to themes of resilience, redemption, and overcoming hardship—making it the perfect showcase for both artists’ emotional depth. Lake, known for his commanding gospel vocals, delivered his signature intensity, while Jelly Roll brought a raw authenticity shaped by his personal struggles and rise through the country music world.
An Unforgettable Blend of Styles
The performance opened with the gentle strum of an acoustic guitar, setting a somber, reflective mood. Jelly Roll’s raspy vocals led the way, quickly joined by Lake’s soaring harmonies. Their chemistry was undeniable—Jelly Roll’s rugged honesty and Lake’s spiritual power intertwined beautifully, creating a moment of true magic on stage.
As the song unfolded, the emotional weight of the lyrics resonated with the audience, offering a reminder of the strength it takes to keep fighting through life’s darkest moments. “Hard Fought Hallelujah” became not just a song, but a shared experience of perseverance and hope.
Breaking Genre Barriers
What made this performance even more special was how it transcended traditional genre lines. While Jelly Roll has blended country, rock, and rap influences throughout his career, this performance rooted him firmly in classic country storytelling. Meanwhile, Lake, a gospel favorite, brought a contemporary edge that elevated the collaboration. Together, they delivered a fusion of country, gospel, and soul that felt fresh, raw, and completely authentic.
The crowd responded with overwhelming applause, embracing both the message of the song and the incredible synergy between the two performers. It was a healing, cathartic moment for many—a reminder of music’s unique ability to bring people together through shared emotion.
A Highlight of 2025
“Hard Fought Hallelujah” was released earlier this year as part of a special collaboration between Lake and Jelly Roll, a project widely praised for its honesty and vulnerability. Their Jimmy Kimmel Live! performance has only cemented the song’s status as one of the most powerful and memorable tracks of 2025.
It’s clear: Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll aren’t just creating music—they’re creating moments that stay with you long after the last note fades.
For both Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll, this performance marked another major milestone in their already remarkable journeys. Lake, known for his deep roots in worship music, continues to expand his audience, reaching new listeners with his emotionally charged artistry. Meanwhile, Jelly Roll—whose rapid rise has captivated the music world—proved once again that he can effortlessly bridge genres, crafting music that feels both raw and uniquely his own.
As the two artists took their final bows, the message resonated clearly: “Hard Fought Hallelujah” isn’t just another song—it’s a powerful testament to the strength found in perseverance and redemption through life’s hardest struggles. With this unforgettable performance, Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll reminded us all that some of the greatest victories are born from the toughest battles.