Imagine writing a song in your bedroom and years later watching a total stranger use it to save their own life on national TV. In January 2026, Brandon Lake sat stunned as he watched a man named Bear Bailey step onto the Star Search stage. Bear chose to sing Hard Fought Hallelujah, a song Brandon wrote about finding light in the darkest holes. Brandon sat in front of his camera with his head in his hands, completely overwhelmed by the moment.
The scene was even more wild because Brandon’s close friend Jelly Roll was sitting in the judge’s chair. As Bear sang about his past struggles with addiction, Brandon watched through tears as Jelly Roll broke down on screen, too. Brandon shared this reaction with the world to show that his music belongs to the people who are hurting.
I Was Infact Crying Somewhere
Fans across the internet were moved by how much Brandon cared about this contestant. One viewer wrote that seeing a famous artist cry for a stranger made them love his music even more. Another person said that the song felt like a hug for anyone who has ever failed.
That same humble heart is what made Brandon and Jelly Roll such fast friends. They call each other brothers because they both believe that being honest about your pain is the only way to heal. Even though one is a worship leader and the other is a country star, they found a middle ground in their shared faith.
Jelly Roll x Brandon Lake – “Hard Fought Hallelujah” | Live at the Grand Ole Opry
The two friends eventually took their bond to the Grand Ole Opry for Brandon’s very first time on that historic stage. They stood together in the spotlight and sang their hearts out for a crowd that would not stop cheering. The performance was so powerful that it even earned a Grammy nomination for being the best song of the year.
Brandon Lake continues to change lives by sharing his journey. He has a gift for making music that feels like a conversation with a good friend. You can keep up with his new songs and see his life behind the scenes by following him on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.