Lee Greenwood has canceled five upcoming performances with Jelly Roll, becoming the latest country music star to distance himself from the singer following his recent controversial remarks.
The decision comes after Kid Rock and Blake Shelton also reportedly canceled or changed plans involving Jelly Roll. According to sources close to Greenwood, the singer became concerned that Jelly Roll’s recent entry into what critics are calling “wokeland” could create problems for his own concerts and alienate part of his fan base.
Greenwood had previously been supportive of Jelly Roll and viewed him as one of the rising stars in country music. The two had been expected to share the stage at five upcoming performances, but those plans have now been scrapped.
Greenwood said he had supported Jelly Roll because of what he saw as his potential and success in country music, but the singer’s recent comments changed his position.
“I’ve supported Jelly, but his recent remarks have made it impossible for me to defend him. I don’t want to hurt my fans,” Greenwood said.
Greenwood also made it clear that he did not want the controversy surrounding Jelly Roll to become part of his own shows.
“I’m not getting booed for that wokester, and I don’t want his controversy to follow me,” Greenwood added.
The cancellations add to a growing list of setbacks surrounding Jelly Roll as criticism of his recent remarks continues to spread. The singer has maintained a large following in country music, but his outspoken comments have divided fans and sparked heated discussions across the industry.
For Greenwood, the decision appears to be less about personal hostility and more about protecting the relationship he has built with his own audience.
Sources close to the singer said Greenwood spent time considering whether the five performances were worth the potential backlash. Ultimately, he decided that keeping his fan base comfortable was more important than continuing the collaboration.
The change also means fans who purchased tickets expecting to see both artists may now see Greenwood perform without Jelly Roll. Details about whether another artist will take Jelly Roll’s place have not been announced.
Jelly Roll has faced increasing criticism from some country music fans who believe his recent political comments have distracted from his music. Others have defended him, arguing that he should be free to express his personal opinions without having his professional relationships affected.
The disagreement has created an unusual situation for an artist who had been enjoying significant momentum in country music.
Greenwood’s decision could further increase pressure on Jelly Roll as other artists and event organizers consider whether they want to remain associated with him.
For now, Greenwood appears determined to move forward without the controversy.
The five performances will no longer feature Jelly Roll, and Greenwood is expected to continue with his upcoming schedule.
Jelly Roll has not publicly responded to Greenwood’s decision to cancel the five performances.