| Full Name | Kenneth Eric Church |
| Age | 46 |
| Birthday | May 3, 1977 |
| Born | Granite Falls, NC, United States |
| Relationship | Married to Katherine Blasingame |
| Children | 2 sons |
| Genre | Country, Southern Rock |
| Albums | 9 Studio Albums |
| Net Worth | $14 Million |
| Social Media | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube |
With his signature aviator sunglasses, rebellious attitude, and hard-driving country rock sound, Eric Church has become one of the most prominent stars in modern country music. Often referred to as an "outlaw" country artist, Church has carved out his own unique path in the country music world. He‘s known for his raw, passionate performances and for penning chart-topping hits that speak to the highs and lows of real life. Let‘s take a closer look at the man in the sunglasses – Eric Church.
Early Life
Kenneth Eric Church was born on May 3, 1977 in Granite Falls, North Carolina. He became interested in music at a young age after buying his first guitar at age 13. As a teenager, Church began performing at local bars and venues in his hometown, honing his skills on the guitar and as a vocalist.
After high school, Church briefly attended Appalachian State University before transferring to Nashville to pursue a career in music. He scored a gig writing songs for other artists, including Terri Clark and Travis Tritt.
Music Career
Eric Church released his debut album “Sinners Like Me” in 2006, which reached #7 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. It featured rowdy hits like “How ‘Bout You” and “Two Pink Lines.” This marked Church as a rising star in Nashville, though his rebellious attitude caused some friction with the industry.
Undeterred, Church forged his own path with “Carolina” (2009), “Chief” (2011) and “The Outsiders” (2014) – albums that generated #1 hits like “Smoke a Little Smoke,” “Drink in My Hand,” “Springsteen,” and “Talladega.” His live shows became legendary, with high-energy sets over 2 hours long.
At the 2016 CMA Awards, Church won Album of the Year for “Mr. Misunderstood” and Male Vocalist of the Year. In 2018 he released “Desperate Man,” which included the title track and “Some of It.” To date, Church has charted over 20 Top 10 singles.
Outlaw Country Style
Church earned an "outlaw" reputation by bucking Nashville norms. He has freely criticized the country music industry and traditional radio. His sound blends genres like southern rock and heartland rock into country. Lyrically he tackles grittier, real-world topics like cancer, isolation, and poverty.
His live shows are unpredictable marathons where anything might happen. He has incorporated hip hop and pop elements into performances. Overall, Church refuses to be boxed into a cookie-cutter Nashville mold.
Giving Back
Beyond music, Church has dedicated himself to charity. He has raised funds for victims of disasters, wounded veterans, abused children and more through organizations like Operation Troop Aid and the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation. His big heart has earned great admiration from fans.
Personal Life
Church married Katherine Blasingame in 2008. They have two sons together – Boone and Tennessee. When not touring, Church splits time between homes in North Carolina and Nashville. He enjoys hunting, fishing, sports, and spending time on his land outside Nashville.
The Legacy of Eric Church
With his ever-present sunglasses, gravelly voice, and blend of country and rock, Eric Church has become one of the most compelling modern country stars. He has charted over 20 Top 10 hits, sold out arenas worldwide, and won critical acclaim – while defying music industry norms. Church continues to make his mark through his passionate music and performances.
5 Essential Eric Church Songs
- "Springsteen" – A nostalgic ode to the magic of music.
- "Record Year" – A fun, uptempo look back at a wild year.
- "Smoke a Little Smoke" – A feel-good, country rock party anthem.
- "Like Jesus Does" – A thoughtful ballad about being a better person.
- "Give Me Back My Hometown" – An evocative story song about changing times.
Fun Eric Church Facts
- Taught himself guitar at 13 using his dad‘s old guitar.
- First country artist to sell out Madison Square Garden (2 nights).
- Avid sports fan who has performed at major events like the Daytona 500.
- Owns 130 acres in Nashville he calls "Chief‘s Hideaway."
- Known for marathon shows and unpredictable live performances.