Country star Jason Aldean tribute to Charlie Kirk took a heartfelt moment during his September 11 concert in Detroit, Michigan, to mourn the loss of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA. The performance came just a day after Kirk was assassinated while speaking at an event in Orem, Utah, and Aldean used the stage to honor his friend’s life and legacy.

A Tribute From the Stage

Midway through the concert, Aldean paused to address the crowd. In a video captured by fans, the singer said:

“An amazing person by the name of Charlie Kirk was murdered yesterday in Utah.”

The crowd erupted into cheers at the mention of Kirk’s name, showing their support. Aldean went on to recall his personal experiences with Kirk, describing him as “one of the best people ever.”

He reflected on the tragedy, saying, “This is not the guy you go after… It’s a weird country we live in when you start taking people out because you disagree with their opinions. That’s not what we’re about here.”

Remembering Kirk’s Support

Aldean also tied his tribute to his 2023 single, “Try That in a Small Town,” which stirred national debate upon its release. The music video faced backlash and was pulled from rotation on CMT, but Aldean noted that Kirk had been among the first to publicly support him.

“I remember when we put this song out, people like Charlie Kirk were some of the first to say, ‘That’s what it’s about—this country coming together, calling out the bulls— when we see it, trying to get everything back on track,’” Aldean told the audience.

According to Aldean, Kirk wanted nothing more than a better future for the nation and its youth. “Charlie is a guy that’s going to be very, very much missed, and his legacy is going to live on forever with Turning Point and everything he’s done in just 31 years.”

After his remarks, Aldean performed “Try That in a Small Town” in Kirk’s honor, dedicating the moment to his late friend.

Read more: ABC Stations To Fill Jimmy Kimmel’s Former Time Slot With Special Charlie Kirk Tribute

Social Media Tribute

Beyond the concert, Aldean also took to Instagram to share his grief. Posting a photo of himself, his wife Brittany, and Charlie Kirk, Aldean wrote:

“It’s been a hard day not only in our family, but all over the country. Charlie Kirk was one of the kindest, smartest and bravest people I’ve ever met. I’m honored to have met and spoken with him on a few occasions. He was a man of peace and wanted nothing but the best for our country and its youth. We might have lost Charlie today but what he has done will live on forever. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, kids, and the entire Kirk family.”

The post quickly gained traction, with thousands of fans offering condolences and sharing memories of Kirk’s activism.

Read more: Erika Kirk Shares Moving Tribute Commemorating Charlie’s First “Week In Heaven”

Aldean’s Broader Message

This wasn’t the first time Aldean has spoken out about issues tied to community, safety, and national values. In a past interview, he explained why “Try That in a Small Town” resonated with so many people, including Kirk:

“I think there’s a lot of people out there that just want to go to work, come home, raise their kids, and feel safe sending them to school. We’re kind of living in the Wild West right now, and people are tired of it. That’s why so many connected with the song—it speaks to their frustration.”

The combination of his music and his tribute underscored Aldean’s ongoing stance on unity, safety, and honoring those who support similar values.

Read more: Jamey Johnson Honors Charlie Kirk With Mournful Performance Of “Lead Me Home”

Legacy of Charlie Kirk

At just 31, Charlie Kirk left behind a major footprint in American politics and youth activism through his work with Turning Point USA. Aldean’s words echoed what many of Kirk’s supporters have said since his death. That his influence will continue to be felt for years to come, carried on through the movement he built.

For Aldean, the tribute was both personal and public—an acknowledgment of a friend’s impact. As well as a message about resilience, unity, and carrying forward Kirk’s legacy.