Aldean called the Turning Point USA founder “one of the best people, ever” during his Detroit concert just a day after Kirk’s tragic death.
Country singer Jason Aldean took time during his Detroit concert on Sept. 11 to pay tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot just one day earlier at Utah Valley University.
Aldean remembered Kirk as “an amazing person” and “one of the best people, ever.” He told the crowd that he had met the 31-year-old Turning Point USA founder several times and always admired his passion. To honor him, Aldean dedicated his 2023 single Try That In a Small Town—a track Kirk publicly defended when it drew backlash for its lyrics and imagery.
According to The Tennessean “Charlie’s a guy that’s going to be very, very much missed,” Aldean said on stage. “His legacy is going to live on forever with Turning Point [USA] and what he’s done with only 31 years on this planet.” He called the loss “really tragic for everybody.”
A day earlier, Aldean posted on Instagram with a photo of himself, his wife Brittney, and Kirk, writing, “Charlie Kirk was one of the kindest, smartest and bravest people I’ve ever met. I’m honored to have met and spoke with him on a few occasions.”
The Shooting and Arrest
Kirk was killed on Sept. 10 while speaking to about 3,000 people in Orem, Utah, during his “American Comeback Tour.” Authorities say he was struck by a single gunshot, sending the event into chaos.
Investigators quickly identified 22-year-old Tyler Robinson as the suspect. Utah Governor Spencer Cox said Robinson admitted the crime to a family member, who alerted police. He was arrested late Sept. 11, with FBI Director Kash Patel confirming the capture.
President Donald Trump, a longtime ally of Kirk, first shared the arrest news on Fox & Friends, declaring, “We have him.” Trump also announced he will attend Kirk’s upcoming funeral in Phoenix, Arizona.
For Aldean, the moment was about more than politics—it was about a friend lost too soon. “He’s someone I feel lucky to have known,” he told fans before closing the night with his dedication.
