Artist Name: Eric Church 

Eric Church is an American country singer-songwriter from Granite Falls, North Carolina. The established hitmaker is best-known for pushing musical boundaries, as his sound is a unique blend of country-rock and Americana. He has garnered a massive following for his introspective songwriting, authenticity, and captivating live performances. Church’s heart and soul shines through in his songwriting, as he tackles a wide array of topics from love, loss, and complex societal issues. Church rose to fame in 2005 and released nine studio albums via Capitol Nashville. Some of his biggest hits include – “Springsteen,” “Record Year,” “Some of It,” “Drinking in My Hand,” “The Only Way I Know,” and “Talladega.” 

Church's nickname is “The Chief.” The name is derived from his smash collection, Chief. The release of the 11-song tracklist became a monumental moment in his career, as it solidified his name in the genre. The name of the album was inspired by his grandfather, who they called “Chief.” 

Church is a decorative artist with multiple Billboard Music Awards, CMT Music Awards, American Country Awards, and CMA Awards. In 2020, Church scored Entertainer of the Year at the CMA Awards. He was also nominated for Album of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, and Single of the Year. Despite his success, Church has yet to walk away with a Grammy Award. 

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Fandom Name: The Church Choir 

The “Church Choir” is the official fan club for Eric Church. The community is made up of dedicated enthusiasts who share the same passion and appreciation for Church’s music. The Church Choir was established in 2013 and was created to provide a dedicated community. The Being a part of the Church Choir comes with multiple benefits: 

• Exclusive Access: Early access to concert tickets, pre-sale opportunities, special merchandise, and other offers not available for the general public. 
• Fan Community: The Church Choir serves as a space for fans to come together. The sense of unity allows members to share their love for Church, experiences, favorite songs, albums, and concerts. 
• Exclusive Content: Eric Church often releases exclusive content for the Church Choir. For instance, the crooner would release behind-the-scenes videos, interviews, and personal updates. This unique strategy allows fans to understand Church’s artistry on a deeper level. Church and his tight-knit team also engage with the Church Choir to build a most meaningful connection.
• Events and Contests: The Church Choir also organizes special events, contests, giveaways, and even meet-and-greets. There are “membership tiers” within the Church Choir – each level varies and offers different perks/ benefits.  

Birthdate: May 3, 1977

Birthplace: Granite Falls, North Carolina

Family Background: Eric Church is the son of Ken and Rita Church. At 13-years-old he bought his first guitar and began writing songs. While in high school, he would play around town at sticky dive bars playing covers and originals. After graduating from South Caldwell High School, he attended Appalachian State University with a degree in marketing. In 2006, he made his debut on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart with single “How ‘Bout You,” but received his first No. 1 hit with “Drink In My Hand.” 

Spouses/  Partners: Yes. Eric Church is married to Katherine Blasingame, who is a music publisher. The two said “I Do” in 2008 and have had two sons together. 

Children: Yes. Erich Church’s first son, Boone McCoy Church was born in 2011 and he welcomed his second son, Tennessee Hawkins in 2015. 

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Charitable or philanthropic activities: Country music fans quickly learned that  Eric Church has a heart of gold. The chart-topping artist has been involved in various philanthropic efforts and charitable initiatives. 

• Chief Cares Fund: Church and his wife created The Chief Cares Fund in 2013. The nonprofit administered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee supports a handful of causes in the United States and internationally. Hefty donations have helped underprivileged families in the Tennessee area,  North Carolina, and has also helped fund the Humane Society’s no-kill animal shelters. 
• Charitable Donations: Eric Church has made whopping donations to numerous organizations such as MusiCares – a foundation that provides financial and medical assistance to musicians in times of need. He also has paid it forward to veterans, disaster relief funds, and education. 
• Influences and role models: Church’s influences include – Merle Haggard, Kris Krisofferson, The Grateful Dead, Ray Whylie Hubbard, Wayon Jennings, Little Feat, Metallica, AC/DC, and more. 

Photo Credit: @ericchurchmusic on Instagram.