It's been a pretty big year for Jelly Roll.
Videos by Wide Open Country
The "Save Me" star remains a dominant force in Nashville, bringing country music to a worldwide audience. He also received multiple Grammy nominations this year.
Adding to his achievements, Jelly Roll's personal journey has also captured attention, from his significant weight loss to his new look without facial hair.
But perhaps the highlight of the year came when, earlier this week, Jelly Roll appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience, where the host had a special surprise waiting for him.
Jelly Roll Says Craig Morgan Was an Inspiration to Him
When Jelly Roll made his debut at the Grand Ole Opry on Nov. 9, 2021, he told the crowd about the moment he knew he had to change his life. It was when his daughter was born, but he couldn't see her because he was incarcerated.
"I found strength in country music," he continued. "I used to listen to Craig Morgan's 'Almost Home' in my jail cell and think, 'I'm going to change my life when I get home.'"
After his release, he went to see Morgan perform at the Opry and wept.
Morgan Had a Message for Jelly Roll
Rogan asked Jelly Roll about that moment, and he's almost speechless. But Rogan wasn't done. He had another video to play.
"Hey, Jelly, my friend," Morgan began from inside the Opry.
"I want to take a minute today to say congratulations on all the great things happening in your career and to thank you for the positive difference you are making in the lives of so many people who need the help. You are doing great work, buddy," he continued.
"I'll never forget meeting you on the Grand Ole Opry, and how much it meant to ME to hear you say my music helped you get through some really tough times. That's one thing country music does really well. Who would have ever dreamed I'd be back at the Opry House today to say... Jelly Roll, you are officially invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. It's an honor to say, 'Welcome to the family, brother.'"
Jelly Roll was stunned. Rogan then revealed that Morgan had asked him to play the invitation when Jelly Roll was on the show. The two embraced.
You can faintly hear Jelly Roll tell Rogan that he loves him. It's an emotional moment for the singer, who has come an extraordinarily long way to arrive at this moment.
You can watch the clip below.
