Legendary musician Paul McCartney has long been an outspoken supporter of animal rights, but at a concert in Columbia, South Carolina, on Thursday, he took a moment to support a more human cause.
"This next song, we would like to dedicate to all the people in Charleston," the Beatle said partway through his performance, drawing thunderous applause and cheers. "We dedicate it to them to just show how solid we are with them after we've been through this tragedy, and we pray that people of all colors will be able to live together in peace and harmony."
McCartney then launched into "The Long and Winding Road," a classic track from the Beatles' final studio album, Let It Be.
Nine black parishioners were killed on June 17 when a gunman opened fire during a prayer meeting at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, a historically black house of worship in downtown Charleston. The suspected shooter, Dylann Roof, has been charged with nine counts of murder.
McCartney previously dedicated "The Long and Winding Road" to Charleston at the Firefly Music Festival in Dover, Delaware, on June 19.