Worship leader Brandon Lake recently responded to some of the backlash he’s received for his collaboration with country music artist Jelly Roll.
According to ChurchLeaders, during the Summer Worship Nights 2025 tour in Hershey, Pennsylvania with Phil Wickham, Lake talked about the struggles he’s encountered since collaborating with Jelly Roll for their song, “Hard Fought Hallelujah.” ChurchLeaders notes that this criticism has come because of Jelly Roll’s lifestyle including his use of alcohol and substances.
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“It’s funny because the bigger rooms I go in, the more hate it seems to I’ve gotten from the religious folks,” Lake said. “But the last time I checked…God calls us to run into the darkness carrying our light, to not be afraid of the darkness.”
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Lake stated that each person who calls Jesus their Lord and Savior at one time was drenched in darkness, and it is God’s mercy and grace that pulled them out of the pit.
“I love this Scripture in 1 Peter 2:9. It says we are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation set apart…”
Lake further said that singing “Hard Fought Hallelujah” has been powerful in the various venues he’s performed it in that otherwise would not have been filled with worship for the Lord.
“There’s one in particular that’s kind of taken me all over the country these past few months. And I’ve been able to sign it in spaces like this, except nobody came for a church service,” Lake told the audience. “Nobody came experiencing worship. But we’ve been able to sing this song of brokenness, but this still gets people to sing out hallelujah, no matter how hard it gets.”
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Brandon Lake’s remarks reflect his commitment to ministering beyond traditional boundaries, even when faced with criticism. Despite differing opinions, Lake remains focused on using his platform to shine light in dark places.
Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
Brandons doing what God has called us to do. Im glad he’s not going to stop for the religious. Good for you Brandon.