Christian Singer Forrest Frank Explains Why He’s Skipping the DOVE Awards — and His Public Exchange with Jelly Roll
Forrest Frank Takes a Stand Against Award Shows
Christian artist Forrest Frank has announced that he will not attend the 2025 DOVE Awards, citing his personal convictions about faith, fame, and the purpose of recognition in the Christian music industry.
The DOVE Awards — hosted annually by the Gospel Music Association — celebrate achievements in Christian and gospel music. This year’s ceremony was filmed on October 7 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville and will air Friday, October 10 at 7:30 PM.
Despite previously winning New Artist of the Year and Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year for “Good Day” in 2024, Frank told fans he could no longer justify participating.
“As a Christian artist, I dress kinda like the world, I kind of look like the world. My music can kind of sound like the world. So where’s the line in the sand drawn?” he asked in a heartfelt Instagram video.
Frank said that question led him to take what he called a “stance of non-participation.”
“I will not be attending the Doves or the Grammys,” he said. “I hope to be an example to the youth that the trophy is our salvation. The trophy is that my name is listed in the Book of Life and I get to have eternal life. What good is a piece of metal compared to that?”
His statement resonated with many fans who praised him for prioritizing faith over fame — but it also sparked debate among artists and followers alike.
Jelly Roll Pushes Back
Among those questioning Frank’s stance was Jelly Roll, the country and Christian crossover artist who has been open about his own spiritual journey.
Jelly commented directly on Frank’s post:
“Won’t receive trophy for something from Jesus for Jesus but will take the profits from something from Jesus for Jesus. Maybe I’m missing something here lol.”
The comment quickly went viral, with thousands of fans weighing in on both sides. Some defended Frank’s choice to avoid award shows entirely, while others echoed Jelly Roll’s point about balancing faith and business in the music world.
Frank’s Response — and Reconciliation
In a follow-up video, Forrest Frank addressed Jelly Roll’s comment, saying he “absolutely loved the question.”
He admitted the concern over making money from Christian music had been one of the reasons he hesitated to pursue it for so long.
“I didn’t want to make a business out of something for Jesus,” he said. “Legally, yes, that profit comes back to me, but what I do with it is between me and God.”
Frank stressed that his decision wasn’t meant to judge anyone who chooses to attend or accept awards, but rather to set a personal example for younger believers.
He also extended kindness toward Jelly Roll, saying he viewed him as “a safe place” for honest dialogue and hoped they could continue the conversation privately.
Later, Frank confirmed that the two had indeed spoken by phone and were “GOOD,” putting any perceived tension to rest.
Faith Over Fame
Forrest Frank’s choice has reignited conversation about how Christian artists navigate success in an industry that thrives on recognition and public image.
While some see his stance as a bold declaration of faith, others view it as a missed opportunity to represent Christianity on larger platforms.
Either way, Frank’s message is clear:
“Awards fade. Eternal life doesn’t.”
🎥 Watch Forrest Frank’s full response to Jelly Roll and his original statement about the DOVE Awards below.