Brian Kelley Pays Tribute To Veteran With ‘American Spirit’ Performance

Florida native and Diamond-selling star Brian Kelley recently concluded his five consecutive sold-out Surf Post Sessions shows by recognizing and saluting local veteran, Michael Monk.

Kelley invited Monk and his family to a special locals-only event on July 17^th, where he dedicated the performance of his new single, “American Spirit,” to Monk and his family. To watch the emotional and inspiring moment, click below.

@briankelley

had the honor of surprising 12 year veteran in the Army National Guard, Michael Monk, on Sunday during our Surf Post Sessions. Want to say thank you to all of our service members, this ones for you. #americanspirit #vacation

♬ American Spirit – Brian Kelley

Monk served 12 years as part of the Army National Guard, where he specialized in AIT. He worked as a combat engineering lieutenant in Iraq where he helped build refugee camps.

“It was so special to have Michael [Monk] and his family join us. I felt honored to be able to dedicate ‘American Spirit’ to him and thank him for his 12 years of service,” shares Kelley. “You can look one time in Michael’s eyes and know he means what he says, and that nothing will ever shake what he stands for. He’s a great man, and I look forward to getting to know him more!”

The Florida native hosted this headline run – sponsored by local veteran-owned small business 30A Blaze – live from the backyard of the Tribe Kelley Surf Post, a brand run by Kelley and his wife Brittney. As an ode to his hometown and his love for patriotism, the music video for “American Spirit,” directed by Ben Christensen, shows footage from the annual Independence Day Grayton Beach Parade. 

“‘American Spirit’ is a tribute to my Poppy and Uncle Mike who both served, and to all of our service members and first responders who keep us safe and free – past, present, and future,” Kelley shared upon the track’s release. “I love our great country and will always support our brave defenders.”

Kelley co-wrote “American Spirit” alongside Blake Redferrin and Canaan Smith. He also co-produced with Jake Rose. 

“We wanted to capture the energy and spirit of Fourth of July at home in Florida. The parade grows every year in Grayton Beach, and the celebration on the beach gets even more fun!” Kelley said. “Our friends always set up a huge flag in front of their driveway, so during the afternoon when everyone was at the beach, we did one quick performance shot for this music video to tie it all in with the great footage we captured of families and friends celebrating, soaking up the Florida sun, and giving thanks to our service members. I just love our town – good times, good vibez, and good people.”

“American Spirit” marks Brian Kelley’s first solo release via Big Machine Records after releasing his solo effort, Sunshine State Of Mind, on Warner Music Nashville in 2021.