The Audio Files Ep. 14: Music as Grief, Defiance, and Hope

Brad Zerbo and Jaytriot dedicate this episode of The Audio Files to processing the shock and grief of Charlie Kirk’s assassination through the power of music. They weave a journey from anger to resilience, curating songs that reflect raw emotion, unshakable defiance, and the hope needed to carry forward. From metal tracks that channel rage without violence, to classics like Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down,” Tesla’s “Hang Tough,” and Johnny Cash’s “Man in Black,” each song becomes a statement of strength and principle. They share personal stories of concerts, mosh pits, and college experiences with intolerance, connecting them to Kirk’s own legacy of dialogue over violence. Along the way, they reflect on Codex 9/11 screenings, the Streisand effect amplifying Kirk’s message, and the broader cultural battle over free speech and indoctrination. The show closes with uplifting selections, Kansas, Hatebreed, opera, and more, reminding listeners that while grief is real, music can unify, inspire, and heal.