Eric Benét Criticizes Jelly Roll’s Response to Questions About World Events

R&B singer Eric Benét has publicly criticized Jelly Roll’s response when asked about current global issues, following the country star’s Grammy Awards acceptance speech. Benét questioned the sincerity of Jelly Roll’s professed faith and willingness to speak out on important matters.

Benét’s Criticism

In a video posted to Instagram on Sunday, Benét referenced Jelly Roll’s acceptance speech for Best Contemporary Country Album for Beautifully Broken, which he received on February 1st. The Grammy Awards recognized Jelly Roll’s album, alongside nominees including Kelsea Ballerini, Tyler Childers, Eric Church, and Miranda Lambert.

Benét then contrasted the speech with Jelly Roll’s response when reporters asked for his commentary on “the atrocities in the world.” According to Benét, Jelly Roll stated, “I’m just a dumb ol’ redneck, I keep my political views to myself.”

“That n—a full of sh–,” Benét added in his video. “Never trust a person who will speak passionately and in great detail about love, but when it’s time to speak against hate, they ain’t got sh– to say.”

Jelly Roll’s Initial Response

Shortly after winning three Grammy Awards at the Recording Academy ceremony earlier in February, Jelly Roll described himself as “disconnected” from politics. He stated, “I didn’t even know politics were f—ing real until I was in my mid-20s in jail.” He also mentioned growing up in a household affected by drug addiction, stating, “When you grow up in a drug addict household, you think we have common calls about what’s happening in world politics?”

Jelly Roll initially indicated he had “a lot to say” about political issues and promised to share his thoughts with fans within a week, but has not followed up in the three weeks since as reported by MusicRow.

Benét’s Follow-Up and Broader Critique

On February 23rd, Benét posted a follow-up video addressing feedback on his initial criticism. He questioned how much “research” is needed to condemn acts like “raping, torturing and killing children” or “genocide.”

Benét argued that speaking out against injustice is a fundamental aspect of Christian faith, aligning with principles of “Shelter the homeless, feed the hungry, and love thy neighbor.” He concluded that addressing such issues isn’t political, but rather a demonstration of Christian values.

Representatives for Jelly Roll have been contacted for comment, but have not yet responded. YouTube hosts a video discussing Eric Benet’s comments on Jelly Roll’s Grammy acceptance speech.