Country music star Lee Brice has sparked controversy after dedicating a song to conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a concert, prompting both praise and backlash online.
The tribute took place at a show in Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday, September 11, just one day after Kirk was fatally shot during an appearance at Utah Valley University. The attack, which was captured on video and circulated widely online, occurred in front of a large crowd. A 22-year-old suspect, Tyler Robinson, has since been arrested.
Kirk’s assassination has drawn a mixed public response. While many have expressed grief, others have highlighted his polarizing views on issues such as abortion, gun control, and LGBTQ+ rights.
During the concert, Brice performed his rarely played track, “When Kingdom Comes,” which he co-wrote with his wife. “Tonight I’d like to play a song and dedicate it to Charlie Kirk and what he so adamantly stood for,” Brice told the audience. “I don’t want to see a picture of this country without God in it.”
In a statement to Breitbart News, the singer added, “Charlie’s passing deeply affected me and the whole band, and we knew we wanted to honor him. It was the best way to honor what Charlie held closest to his heart — his faith and his relationship with Jesus Christ.”
While the live audience responded with cheers, a video of the dedication quickly divided social media users. Supporters lauded the gesture, with one writing, “America is finding Christ again and will rise and be what it once was.” Another commented, “He was a great example of how the country should be… open conversations with those we don’t agree with to further understand each other.”
However, critics condemned the tribute. One user questioned the singular focus on Kirk, asking, “What about all the little innocent SCHOOL GIRLS AND BOYS that all far too often are shot and killed… any chance of paying them similar respect!?” Others accused Kirk’s supporters of using his death to advance a political agenda, with one commenter stating, “MAGA doesn’t care about Kirk’s death—just exploiting it to advance Christo-fascist authoritarianism.”
Source link
