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At the2024 CMA Awards, Eric Church delivered a surprise performance that left the crowd in awe. His stirring rendition of “Darkest Hour” was more than just a musical moment.
It was a heartfelt reminder of the ongoing recovery efforts needed inEast TennesseeandWestern North Carolinaafter the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.
Keep going for more information!
A Performance That Hit Home
Eric Church’s performance captivated audiences when he took the stage on November 20.
Strumming his guitar with a choir providing powerful harmonies, Church brought an emotional depth to the evening.
The audience at Nashville’sBridgestone Arenafell silent, hanging on every word of the poignant lyrics.
“Darkest Hour,”which Church released last month as the“Hurricane Helene Edit,”has resonated deeply with fans, becoming a beacon of hope for those affected by the storm.
The song will be featured on his upcoming studio album, slated for release in 2025.
Church isn’t just singing about recovery—he’s rolling up his sleeves to make it happen.
In an interview earlier this week, he explained the inspiration behind the song and his commitment to rebuilding communities devastated by thehurricane.
“We’re pretty good in this country at the 911 part, which is the food, the water, the diapers,”he said.
“We’re not very good at the next part, which is how do we keep people there, how do we rebuild the community?”
Church recognized that without places to live, families would be forced to leave, and the communities they’ve built would scatter.
His focus has shifted to ensuring that residents have the resources to stay and rebuild their lives.
Source: Instagram/ericchurchmusic
Making a Difference: Concert for Carolina
In October, Church teamed up withLuke Combsto co-headline the Concert for Carolina, an event that raised an impressive $24.5 million for hurricane relief.
The funds are being used to provide immediate aid and lay the groundwork for long-term recovery. But Church’s vision doesn’t stop at raising money.
He recently launched a housing initiative aimed at building homes for100 familiesinAvery Countyand surrounding areas, one of the hardest-hit regions in his home state ofNorth Carolina.
“This is where I grew up, and I couldn’t just sit back and watch people lose everything,” Church shared. “We’re going to do whatever it takes to bring these communities back.”
A History of CMA Moments
This year’s performance isn’t the first time Church has used the CMA stage to make an impact.
In2023, he andMorgan Wallenperformed their hit single“Man Made a Bar“in a moment that was both entertaining and emotional.
Church is no stranger to CMA accolades, either. He took home the covetedEntertainer of the Yearaward in2020, solidifying his status as one of country music’s most respected and innovative artists.
Why This Moment Matters
What made Church’s 2024 CMA performance so special was its simplicity and sincerity.
Backed by a choir and armed with just his guitar, he didn’t rely on flashy effects or elaborate staging.
Instead, he let the song’smessagetake center stage, emphasizing the need for resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
His performance showed that music has the power to heal and inspire—and that real change happens when artists use their platform for good.
Looking Ahead
Fans of Eric Church have plenty to look forward to. His nextalbum, expected in2025, promises to deliver more of the heartfelt, thought-provoking music he’s known for.
In the meantime, his ongoing commitment to helping hurricane-affected communities will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.
As the2024 CMA Awardswrapped up, hosted byLainey Wilson,Luke Bryan, andPeyton Manning, it was obvious that Eric Church’s performance wasn’t just a highlight of the night—it was a call to action for everyone watching.
Source: Instagram/ericchurchmusic
More Than a Musician
Eric Churchis proving, once again, that his influence extends far beyond his music.
Whether he’s raising millions for hurricane relief or building homes for families in need, he’s setting an example of what it means to truly care for your community.
With his combination of talent, heart, and determination, Church continues to inspire his fans and peers alike.
So, while his music might bring people together in the darkest hours, his actions are helping to create brighter days ahead.
What was your favorite moment from theCMA Awardsthis year? Let’s talk about it!
2024 CMA Awards Performances Overview
Performance
Artists
Highlights
George Strait Tribute
Lainey Wilson, Jamey Johnson, Miranda Lambert, Parker McCollum, Chris Stapleton, George Strait
Tribute to George Strait with multiple performances including “Amarillo By Morning,” “Give It Away,” “Troubadour,” and “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame.”
“Believe”
Brooks & Dunn, Jelly Roll
Powerful gospel-inflected performance with Jelly Roll adding emotional depth.
“Liar”
Jelly Roll, Keith Urban
Intense performance about addiction, featuring Jelly Roll’s passionate vocals and Keith Urban’s guitar.
“The Architect”
Kacey Musgraves
Simple guitar-vocal performance showcasing Musgraves’ songwriting on life’s twists and turns.
“I’m Gonna Love You”
Cody Johnson, Carrie Underwood
Stunning ballad performance highlighting the powerful vocals of both artists.
“What Am I Gonna Do?”
Chris Stapleton, Morgane Stapleton
Heartbreaking song about loss, with reserved instrumentation and deeply emotional vocals.
“Help Me Make It Through The Night”
Ashley McBryde
Elegant tribute to Kris Kristofferson, performed with grace and a standing ovation.
Flashy, charismatic performance with great chemistry, earning a standing ovation.
“New to Country”
Bailey Zimmerman
Energetic performance with a slightly dated feel, highlighted by Zimmerman’s stage presence.
“Love You, Miss You, Mean It”
Luke Bryan
Solid performance showcasing Bryan’s hitmaker status and fun-loving style.
“Cowboys Cry Too”
Kelsea Ballerini, Noah Kahan
Elegant collaboration, with sweet vocals but slightly awkward stage presence from Kahan.
“Yours”
Post Malone
Emotional ballad about his daughter, but with a strained vocal performance.
“California Sober”
Post Malone, Chris Stapleton
A rollicking duet to kick off the show, with Stapleton’s powerful vocals taking the lead.
“Darkest Hour”
Eric Church
Soulful performance raising awareness for Hurricane Helene recovery, backed by horns, strings, and a choir.
This table highlights key moments and performances from the 2024 CMA Awards
Conclusion
Eric Church’s performance of“Darkest Hour”at the2024 CMA Awardswasn’t just another memorable moment in his illustrious career—it was a rallying cry for resilience and hope.
His heartfelt commitment to helping rebuild the communities of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina exemplifies the power of using one’s platform for good.
Through his music, live events like theConcert for Carolina, and long-term initiatives to provide housing for families, Church is proving that he’s a voice for country music and also a champion for those in need.
As fans look forward to his next album in2025, they can take inspiration from his unwavering dedication to making a difference.
Eric Church’s actions tell us that real change happens when we combine talent, compassion, and a genuine desire to lift others up.
He’s more than just an entertainer—he’s a force for good. And that’s a legacy worth celebrating.
Last Updated: November 21, 2024
