In 2025, soulful singer-songwriter Teddy Swims delivered a moving new ballad titled “Take Him Home, Lord,” a heartfelt tribute to the late Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, whose tragic death earlier this year stunned audiences across America. Known for his rich, gospel-infused voice and emotional storytelling, Teddy used his music to bring comfort to a grieving nation and to honor a life cut short.
The song debuted during a nationally televised memorial concert held in Nashville, where Teddy performed with only a piano and a small gospel choir behind him. As the first warm chords filled the hall, the crowd fell silent. Teddy, dressed in a simple black suit, closed his eyes and began to sing the opening lines: “Lord, a child of Yours is coming home tonight / Hold him close and keep him in Your light.” The words immediately set the tone for a piece that blends prayer, mourning, and quiet hope.
Musically, “Take Him Home, Lord” draws from Teddy’s signature blend of soul, country, and gospel. The arrangement is sparse—gentle piano, soft organ swells, and subtle backing harmonies—allowing his gravelly, heartfelt vocals to take center stage. The chorus soars with a plea for peace: “Take him home, Lord, where pain is gone / Let Your mercy guide him on.” Each line carries the weight of both personal grief and a collective longing for healing.
Before the performance, Teddy shared a few quiet words with the audience. He admitted he had never met Charlie Kirk personally but was struck by the tragedy of a young husband and father being taken so suddenly. “Loss like this isn’t about politics,” he said, his voice trembling slightly. “It’s about family, about love, and about finding a way to keep going when the world breaks your heart.” His remarks earned a standing ovation even before the first note of the song was played.
As the final verse unfolded, Teddy’s voice climbed with a raw intensity that left many in the audience wiping away tears. The gospel choir joined him for a powerful refrain of “Home at last, safe and free,” creating a sense of spiritual release. When the final chord faded, the hall remained silent for several seconds, the weight of the moment sinking in before applause finally erupted.
Fans watching around the world quickly flooded social media with clips of the performance, praising Teddy for his ability to channel universal emotions through music. Messages poured in from listeners of all backgrounds, with many describing the song as a “prayer for everyone who has lost someone they love.” Critics echoed the sentiment, calling “Take Him Home, Lord” one of Teddy Swims’ most profound and soul-stirring works to date.
In a year marked by grief and division, Teddy Swims has offered something rare: a song that comforts without judgment and reminds us of the power of faith, love, and music. “Take Him Home, Lord” is not only a tribute to Charlie Kirk, but also a timeless anthem of hope for anyone who has faced the pain of saying goodbye.