Zac Brown Shares Encouraging Words with the Artemis II Crew in Space: ‘Keep Flying Strong’
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Zac Brown has reached new heights with his music, as his song “Free” was played for astronauts aboard the Artemis II space mission, soaring hundreds of thousands of feet above the Earth.
On Friday, April 10, it was announced that the Zac Brown Band’s 2010 hit, which peaked at No. 34 on the Billboard Hot 100, served as the wake-up call for the crew as they prepared for another day in space. Following the upbeat track, Brown delivered a personal message to the astronauts.
“Good morning Reed, Victor, Christina and Jeremy,” he said. “Zac from Zac Brown Band here, checking in from the USA. We hope that piece of our song, ‘Free,’ helps start your day with the right kind of lift. We just want to say how proud we are of you. It takes courage, grit, and freedom to chase the unknown. It’s the purest kind of American spirit.”
Brown added, “Millions back home are looking up and feeling more inspired because of you. Keep flying strong. Keep flying safe. We can’t wait to welcome you home.”
The singer and his wife, jewelry designer Kendra Scott, shared a video of this historic moment on Instagram, capturing their reaction to the news. “Baby, wake up! They’re playing your song in space!” Scott exclaimed to Brown.
“Found out that we got to wake up the crew with our song ‘Free,’” Brown responded excitedly, honoring the “brave people on this mission.” He described the moment as “an incredible honor.”
The “Chicken Fried” artist now joins a select group of musicians whose songs have been played in space. Throughout their journey, the Artemis II astronauts also woke up to tracks such as “Pink Pony Club” by Chappell Roan, “Under Pressure” by Queen and David Bowie, and “Working Class Heroes” by CeeLo Green. NASA recently shared a playlist featuring all the songs played during the mission.
