Former My Chemical Romance guitarist Ray Toro has released his latest song for free, dedicating it to the memory of trans teenager Leelah Alcorn.

Toro, co-founder of the US rock band which split in 2013, had written the song ‘For The Lost And Brave’ a year ago, but was waiting for the right time to release it.

Speaking on his blog, Toro said: ‘I wrote this song about a year ago, waiting to release it on my record when it was complete. There have been many times that I’ve almost put it out, but have always found a reason to hold it back. But lately there seems to be so much hate and misunderstanding in this world.

‘As I’m sure many of you felt after reading the news of young Leelah Alcorn taking her own life, my heart sank. I felt sick. Yet another young life gone because of not being heard, not being understood, and not being unconditionally loved for who they truly were. After hearing her story, and reading her final Tumblr post, I finally felt it was time to share this song.

‘It is time we learn to accept each other for who we truly are. Being seen, heard and truly loved as our authentic selves is something we all want, and something we all deserve.

‘For The Lost And Brave.’

The song has since become a hit on music sharing website Soundcloud, which Toro uploaded the song to on 1 January.

Commenters on the website have been keen to show their praise. ‘Oliver all time low’ left a comment saying: Ray. As a transgender person myself, thank you for this. I think this properly reflects the feeling of most trans people, and how Leelah was feeling. Thank you so much.’

User ‘vacantnightmare’ said: ‘I have tingles and I wanna cry. Rest in power Leelah.’

Toro later tweeted: ‘Thank you for all the incredibly kind words.’

Listen to ‘For The Lost And Brave’ here.