Country music star Jelly Roll is encountering substantial backlash from his fanbase following the announcement of his participation in the controversial Rock the Country music festival, co-founded by outspoken Donald Trump supporter Kid Rock.
Festival Details and Political Controversy
The 2026 Rock the Country festival is scheduled to run for two days in each of eight U.S. cities, spanning from May 1 to September 21. The lineup includes several artists who have publicly expressed support for President Trump, including R&B singer Nelly and country singer Jason Aldean, alongside headliner Jelly Roll.
While Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, has previously stated he does not identify as a Democrat or Republican due to felony convictions preventing him from voting, many fans interpret his inclusion on this particular bill as an implicit endorsement of conservative viewpoints.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Outcry
On social media platforms like Threads, fans have expressed disappointment and frustration. One user commented, "I can't believe I defended @jellyroll615 and then this BS. Apparently Ludacris dropped out when he saw the WAVE of comments. This is a full on MAGA train and I'm so saddened by a lot of these names, but not surprised."
Another fan noted, "I know very little about jelly roll, but he's always screamed MAGA," while a third added, "Kid Rock, Jason Aldean tells me everything I need to know." A more pointed remark stated, "You would think the minute someone hears 'Kid Rock' they'd say 'f*** that.'"
Lineup Changes and Artist Affiliations
Rapper Ludacris was initially listed on the festival lineup but was quickly removed following fan backlash. A representative for Ludacris told Rolling Stone there had been a "mix-up" and that "lines got crossed and he wasn't supposed to be on there."
Other prominent artists joining Jelly Roll at the top of the bill include country singer Blake Shelton and rock band Creed, neither of whom has publicly declared political affiliations. Additional performers include Miranda Lambert, Riley Green, rock band Shinedown, and music duo Brooks and Dunn.
Kid Rock's Political Stance and Festival Vision
Kid Rock, known for his fervent loyalty to Donald Trump, recently shared an Instagram post from a golf outing with the president, captioning it, "Golfed with your favorite President again recently and he played me a live version of James Brown and Pavirotti [sic] performing 'This is a Mans World' - Can't believe I have never heard this. Incredible!"
The festival itself is promoted as being "more than just a festival." According to its official website, it represents "a celebration of community, tradition, and the spirit that's carried America through 250 years."
Jelly Roll first rose to mainstream fame in 2022 following the release of hit singles "Son of a Sinner" and "Need a Favor," earning a Grammy nomination for his work. The Independent has reached out to his representative for comment regarding the current controversy.
