Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
“A truly remarkable man, Charlie Kirk, had his life taken from him…”
Jason Aldean Honors Charlie Kirk With Emotional Dedication in Detroit
Country star Jason Aldean took a pause during his Detroit concert Thursday night to remember his late friend Charlie Kirk, dedicating a performance of “Try That In a Small Town” to the conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder.
Performing at a sold-out Pine Knob Music Theatre, Aldean stopped the show to address the crowd about the shocking events of the previous day.
“I couldn’t stand up here tonight and not say something about what happened yesterday,” Aldean told fans. “Charlie Kirk, an amazing man, was murdered in Utah. I had known him for a few years, we talked many times, and he truly was one of the best people out there. He’s not the kind of person you should ever go after, and it breaks my heart.”
The Georgia-born singer then shared his concerns about the state of the nation. “We’re living in strange times. If people are being targeted just because of their beliefs or opinions, that’s not what America is supposed to be,” he said.
Before launching into his first-ever Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit, Aldean explained that Kirk had been one of the earliest champions of the song. “When we released this track, Charlie was one of the first to say, ‘That’s what it’s about — pulling this country together, standing up when we see things going wrong, and working to make the future better for our kids.’ He wanted nothing but the best for this country, and he made a huge impact in just 31 years. He’s going to be deeply missed, but his legacy through Turning Point will live on.”
As Aldean began the song, chants of “U-S-A” echoed through the venue and the crowd sang along.
Earlier in the evening, concertgoers also saw a giant screen tribute featuring a “Rest in Peace” message for Kirk alongside a “Never Forget” commemoration of the Sept. 11 attacks, with Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” playing over the speakers.