Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) has announced that Jelly Roll has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Artist Humanitarian Award. This recognition honors the triple Grammy-winning artist's profound and authentic dedication to addiction recovery, mental health advocacy, and community support, efforts that extend well beyond his chart-topping music career.
The award will be presented during the Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2026, scheduled for March 18-20 in Nashville.
Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, has become a leading voice in these areas through personal initiatives and direct action. His work includes raising significant funds—such as $500,000 for ACM Lifting Lives—and making substantial donations, including $250,000 to establish a recording studio for teenagers at the Davidson County Juvenile Detention Center. He has also announced plans to develop a 100-acre free rehabilitation campus offering programs ranging from traditional 28-day recovery support to intensive mental health therapy and community-building opportunities for those in long-term recovery.
Established in 1990, the Artist Humanitarian Award celebrates country artists whose philanthropic contributions have meaningfully enhanced the impact and effectiveness of the causes they champion. Past honorees include prominent names such as Eric Church, Luke Combs, Kane Brown, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, and Carrie Underwood.
This year's selection underscores Jelly Roll's unique ability to leverage his platform and personal experiences to drive real change, making him a fitting addition to the award's distinguished legacy.