K Michelle and Jelly Roll: A Dynamic Duo at the CMA Awards 2023
K Michelle reveals her excitement for her Music City debut at the 2023 CMA Awards, where she will be performing alongside her close friend and 'outlaw brother' Jelly Roll Get ready for an unforgettable performance!
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K Michelle is embracing her country roots, transitioning from her R&B background and reality TV stardom. With a fresh album on the way and a name change, she is gearing up for a special collaboration at the CMA Awards. To top it off, she will be joining forces with Jelly Roll, the talented winner of the night's Best New Artist award.
Puddin, a Memphis native, has recently released her first country song titled "Tennessee" under her alias. This debut single is part of her upcoming country album, a move that feels completely natural to the talented star.
The singer, who is 41 years old, expressed in an exclusive interview with We ahead of the 2023 CMA Awards on November 8th, that country music is a fundamental part of her identity. She finds it unbelievable when people question the transition, as she believes there is no transition at all. This genre of music has always been a part of who she is, reflecting her upbringing and her true self.
K Michelle, whose real name is Kimberly Michelle Pate, made her debut in Music City on Wednesday night. She took the largest stage in country music and joined forces with Jelly Roll for an emotive performance of The Judds' hit song, "Love Can Build a Bridge." This was a significant moment for K Michelle as she also features on the album A Tribute to The Judds, where she performs this very song alongside Jelly and the Fisk Jubilee Singers. Reflecting on her love for country music, she shared that The Judds were her first introduction to the genre, with their tape of "Love Can Build a Bridge" being her very first purchase.
Regarding the opportunity to perform alongside Jelly Roll, that experience holds great significance for K Michelle within the realm of music.
"He is like family to me, a kindred spirit," she explained. "In the country music scene, we are considered unconventional figures. I am well-acquainted with his entire path, the obstacles he has faced. Our lives are an open book. We persist, follow our own ambitions, but above all, we share a genuine passion for music. The most incredible aspect of our collaboration is the mutual respect we have for each other. It truly feels like a heavenly connection."
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In a remarkable homage to the late musical icon Naomi Judd, who tragically left us in 2022, the performance captivated the audience. With Wynonna Judd, Judd's daughter and bandmate, among those present, K Michelle and Jelly Roll joined forces to passionately deliver a powerful rendition of one of The Judds' cherished and unforgettable classics.
Dressed in feathers and rhinestones, the former R&B artist effortlessly transformed into a country star. With her mesmerizing adlibs, she captivated the audience to the point of a standing ovation before the performance concluded. It was a deeply emotional moment that resonated with both the performers and the audience.
"Country music, to me, has always been about storytelling and the emotional connection it creates," she expresses with gratitude and enthusiasm. "I feel incredibly blessed and honored to pay tribute to Naomi."
For more from Nashville, check out We’s VIP Guide to Music City.
