Jesse Welles Reflects on Charlie Kirk’s Legacy in New Protest Song ‘Charlie’

## Jesse Welles: A Voice for the Disenfranchised

Over the past year, folk artist Jesse Welles has unexpectedly emerged as a prominent figure in the music scene. His protest songs tackle a range of pressing issues, including ICE raids, healthcare struggles, the opioid crisis, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Notably, just a day after the tragic assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, Welles released a poignant ballad reflecting on the event.

### A Heartfelt Tribute

In his lyrics, Welles expresses the gravity of the situation: “For all of the bile/The bold talk, The venom/The hate and the lies/No one should be killed/No blood should be spilled/Charlie shouldn’t have died/Well you can’t hate the gun and love the gun that shot yer rival/You can’t be kind and wish pain upon a child.” This heartfelt tribute resonates deeply in the wake of such violence.

Kirk, who was just 31, was shot during a speech at an event for Turning Point USA’s “American Comeback Tour.” The assailant remains unidentified, leaving a cloud of uncertainty over the community.

### The Impact of Violence on Society

Welles uses his platform to address the disturbing reactions that can arise following violent events. In his song, he reflects, “I heard laughing,” he sings. “I heard glee/But it coulda been you/It coulda been me… Spin the wheel, if you don’t get killed/You wind up dead inside.” Through these words, he critiques a society that sometimes trivializes tragedy.

### Collaborations and Recognition

Recently, Welles has shared the stage with notable artists such as John Fogerty. During a performance at Farm Aid, he was introduced by David Matthews, who praised his songwriting talent. “I think he’s one of the best songwriters I’ve ever heard in my life,” Matthews stated. “But he gives me hope and he’s unbelievable.”

### A Message Beyond Politics

Welles aims for his music to reach a broad audience, free from political divides. “I think a lot of us are politically homeless,” he shared. “It seems that nobody has your interests in mind. The first step toward progress is uncovering the truth, and we are discovering that truth every day.”

As Welles continues to gain recognition, his music serves as a call to action, urging listeners to reflect on the world around them. What do you think of his approach to tackling societal issues through song?