Jelly Roll releases new song ‘Hands Up’ amid Bunnie Xo Divorce

Jelly Roll gives fans new music in the middle of a week dominated by headlines about his divorce from Bunny Xo.

The country star has released a new song called “Hands Up,” a faith-filled anthem that leans into the themes that have defined much of his recent music: redemption, perseverance and the idea that no one is perfect.

The release comes a few days after both Jelly Roll and Bunnie Xo spoke publicly about their split for the first time.

Jelly Roll Releases ‘Hands Up’

“Hands Up” blends Jelly Roll’s hip-hop roots with a soaring, gospel-infused country sound.

Read more: Jelly Roll sets record on her divorce from Bunnie Xo (Watch)

In the center of the song is a message aimed at anyone who feels flawed but continues to try to become a better person.

“Everybody raise their hands / If you ain’t perfect but you try,” he sings.

The chorus continues:

“Put them all the way up to the sky
Touch the sky a little high
Isn’t that where we want to go when we die?”

The uplifting message is likely to resonate with fans who have connected with Jelly Roll’s deeply personal songwriting throughout his career.

The song arrives amid divorce headlines

The song arrives during a very emotional chapter in Jelly Roll’s personal life.

Earlier this month the singer filed for divorce from Bunnie Xo after nearly ten years of marriage. Court documents cite irreconcilable differences and list May 9 as the couple’s date of separation.

Bunnie Xo recently broke her silence about the split during an episode of her Stupid blonde podcast, where she revealed that the former couple still plans to have a child together despite the divorce.

Read more: Jelly Roll Divorce filing reveals what’s next for assets and debts

“We still have a baby together,” she said, explaining that they intend to become parents and remain close friends.

Jelly Roll speaks out

Only hours after Bunnie Xo’s podcast episode was released, Jelly Roll spoke about the divorce publicly for the first time during a concert stop in Saratoga Springs, NY

“While we’re talking about liars, the internet is a liar too,” he told the crowd, before shutting down rumors that infidelity played a role in the split.

“No one cheated no one,” said Jelly Roll. He also emphasized that his relationship with Bunnie Xo remains strong.

Me and my wife are best friends, we will always be best friends. I want to love her. She will probably be the only woman I will ever love the way I loved her.

Jelly Roll later told fans that “every word” Bunnie Xo shared on her podcast was true.

While his personal life continues to generate headlines, “Hands Up” serves as a reminder of the themes that have long connected him with listeners: faith, forgiveness, and the belief that imperfect people can still keep reaching for something better.