Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll bring down the house on American Idol with a stirring duet of “Hard Fought Hallelujah.” What started as a solo showcase for Lake’s powerful vocals quickly transformed into a spiritual experience when Jelly Roll stepped in to deliver the second verse. As their voices joined on the chorus, the performance took on the weight and fire of a full-blown revival. With soul, grit, and undeniable chemistry, the duo delivered a moment that felt more like church than television — and audiences across the nation felt every note.

Brandon Lake And Jelly Roll Spark A Soulful Revival On ‘American Idol’ With “Hard Fought Hallelujah”

“Hard Fought Hallelujah” featuring Jelly Roll will appear on Brandon Lake’s forthcoming new album, King Of Hearts.

Jelly Roll, Brandon Lake; Photo Courtesy of American Idol via ABC

Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll—who is currently serving as the show’s first-ever “Artist In Residence“—teamed up to perform their collaborative track ‘Hard Fought Hallelujah’ on American Idol as part of the ‘Songs of Faith’ Easter Sunday (April 20) special.

Brandon Lake And Jelly Roll Perform “Hard Fought Hallelujah” On American Idol

The performance launched with Brandon Lake putting his powerful vocals on full display as he belted out the lyrics to the spiritual tune on the first verse before Jelly Roll joined in and sang the second verse. The pair then came together on the track’s chorus, seamlessly and effortlessly blending their unique vocals together, delivering a revival-like moment to the American Idol stage. Together, their vocals were commanding and full of conviction, echoing through the TV with the intensity of a worship anthem.

“I’ll bring my hard-fought heartfelt/ Been-through-hell hallelujah/ I’ll bring my storm-tossed, torn-sail/ Story to tell hallelujah/ God, You’ve been patient/ God, You’ve been gracious/ Faithful whatever I’m feeling or facing/ So I’ll bring my hard-fought, heartfelt/ It is well hallelujah/ Woah-oh-oh-oh Hallelujah, hallelujah,” Lake and Jelly Roll sang on the track’s chorus.

Their impressive performance of the Christian track was met by a roaring applause and a standing ovation from the Idol judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan.

“Such a huge fan, oh my gosh, and it’s a huge honor to be here because I was too afraid to ever audition,” Lake admitted of the opportunity, revealing that he’s a big fan of Idol.

Underwood gushed that she’s a big fan of the 34-year-old American Christian worship singer. “I’ve never met him, but he’s a staple in our house and in our car,” Underwood admitted before she met Brandon Lake, who also was thrilled to meet Underwood. “I’ve been waiting for this day,” Lake gushed as he hugged Underwood.

Lake then added, “I can’t tell you how nerve-wracking it is to be in front of your like heroes, it’s absolutely insane.”

About “Hard Fought Hallelujah”

“Hard Fought Hallelujah” was first released as a solo track by Brandon Lake in November 2024 and debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Digital Songs chart, as well No. 51 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. He then went on to ask Jelly Roll to join him to reimagine the track as a duet in February of 2025.

“Collaborating with Jelly Roll on Hard Fought Hallelujah was powerful because we both understand what it’s like to walk through battles and still choose to lift a song of hope,” Lake previously shared. “My prayer is that this song reminds people not to give up—that even in the hardest seasons, there’s growth, purpose, and a victory worth singing about.” Jelly Roll added, “Working with Brandon was an incredible experience. This track touched my soul like few others. ‘Hard Fought Hallelujah’ is a song that will echo through my home for years to come.”

“Hard Fought Hallelujah” featuring Jelly Roll will appear on Brandon Lake’s forthcoming new album, King Of Hearts, which will arrive on June 13, 2025. Additionally, Brandon Lake will take the project on the road for his headlining King Of Hearts Tour, featuring special guest Franni Cash. The much-anticipated trek will kick off on October 2 in Sunrise, Florida.

Additionally, Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll will bring “Hard Fought Hallelujah” to the late night stage on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on April 24 at 11:35/10:35c on ABC. The pair of superstars previously performed the song on the Grand Ole Opry stage as well as several other times, including during the grand opening of Jelly Roll’s Goodnight Nashville bar.
Jelly Roll, Brandon Lake; Photo Courtesy of American Idol via ABC

American Idol “Songs Of Faith” Episode On Easter Sunday

Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll were just one pair of the performers on the star-studded Easter Sunday episode of American Idol. The ‘Songs of Faith’ themed episode also featured performances from Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, CeCe Winans, and the entire Top 24, who were vying for a spot in the Top 20.

This year’s “Song Of Faith” episode marked the first time in Idol history that the popular singing competition show showcased all faith-based or gospel songs in celebration of a religious holiday.

American Idol airs every Sunday and Monday at 8/7c.