After securing the New Artist of the Year award in Nashville, Tennessee, Jelly Roll, the 39-year-old breakout star, playfully confessed to ET’s Rachel Smith about the mishap backstage where he unintentionally shattered his trophy.
“I’m so embarrassed,” said the “Save Me” singer. “I was so excited, passing it around like a bag of popcorn. I’ve been just letting everybody… like a bag of potatoes, like we were just all sharing or something. I feel bad. Oh God.”
An easy fix is on the way, as Jelly Roll will receive an official engraved replacement trophy.
“I’m gonna get the one with tape,” he joked.
Despite his trophy troubles, the country crooner expressed astonishment at beating out fellow nominees and shared his admiration for Zach Bryan. Reflecting on his win, Jelly Roll admitted, “I didn’t think I had a chance, man. I thought Zach Bryan had it by a clean sweep.”
Jelly Roll had a remarkable night, opening the ceremony with a performance of “Need a Favor” alongside Wynonna Judd and closing with an emotional rendition of The Judds’ “Love Can Build a Bridge” featuring K. Michelle and the Fisk Jubilee Singers.
“Even before I did the song or recording, I called Wynonna,” Jelly Roll mentioned on the red carpet. “I have an immense amount of respect for Wynonna. I grew up listening to The Judds. I love Wynonna. And she said, ‘Not only do I want you to do it. I want you to do it big!'”
The event was hosted by Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning.
