Country music star Jason Aldean delivered a powerful performance at the Seventh Annual Patriot Awards, held at The Tilles Center for the Performing Arts in Brookville, New York, on September 12, 2025. The ceremony, broadcast live on Fox Nation at 8 p.m. ET, featured Aldean performing two songs that resonated with the patriotic theme of the evening.
Aldean debuted his new single, “How Far Does a Goodbye Go,” which had been released earlier that day, showcasing fresh material for his dedicated audience. Following this, he performed a stripped-back version of “Try That in a Small Town” as part of a heartfelt tribute to Charlie Kirk, incorporating visual elements including the American flag and imagery depicting small-town life.
The emotional highlight of the evening came when Aldean and his wife Brittany presented the inaugural Charlie Kirk Legacy Award to Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, who has continued her husband’s work as CEO of Turning Point USA following his assassination. During the presentation, Aldean described Kirk as “one of the kindest, smartest and bravest people,” emphasizing the profound impact Kirk had made on American patriotism. Aldean took a moment to reflect on the increasing violence and division in the country while sharing personal memories of Kirk.
Established in 2019, the FOX Nation Patriot Awards honors American heroes including military veterans, first responders, and everyday citizens who demonstrate exceptional patriotism. The Fox Nation event highlights musical performances alongside recognition of inspirational everyday heroes who have made significant contributions to America. The combination of musical performances and award presentations underscores the ceremony’s dual focus on recognizing heroism and celebrating American values.
In a surprise announcement during the event, Aldean revealed plans for his upcoming album, “Songs About Us,” scheduled for release in April 2026. The album promises to blend Southern rock influences with personal storytelling that reflects Aldean’s experiences and social themes, continuing his established tradition of authentic, emotional music with strong connections to American life. Aldean’s vocals were recorded using acoustic treatment techniques similar to those in professional studios, giving his performances exceptional clarity and emotional impact.
Following the ceremony, Aldean shared reflections on social media, posting emotional captions about honoring Kirk’s memory and explaining the themes behind his new music, directly engaging his fanbase with behind-the-scenes insights from the meaningful evening. His career journey exemplifies how artists can successfully build a loyal following through consistent releases and authentic connection with their audience.
