Eric Church is the reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year, he just performed the national anthem at the Super Bowl, and he’s on the verge of releasing a triple album, Heart & Soul, in the very near future.
And while most artists in modern day country music would say that they’re a fan of Eric Church, he has one legendary fan in his corner right now too… the great Willie Nelson.
In a recent interview with Parade, Willie was asked about his love for the music of Frank Sinatra, after all, Willie is in the process of releasing a Frank Sinatra cover album, but then he was asked if there were any younger artists that he listened to.
“There are. I don’t know if I’d call him young or not, but I like Jamey Johnson.
There’s probably a half a dozen of those young guys coming up. Eric Church is someone who’s really talented.”
I suppose neither of them are that young, but it’s all relative. Either way, it’s hard to disagree with Willie’s taste.
And of course, the feeling is mutual.
Back in 2019, country music super stars like George Strait, Bobby Bare, Kris Kristofferson, Jamey Johnson, Chris Stapleton, Lee Ann Womack, Margo Price, Vince Gill, Jimmy Buffett, Steve Earle & more came together to honor the great Willie Nelson for a once in a lifetime tribute concert at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
With various stars performing Willie hits from over the years, and many teaming up with Willie himself, the night dubbed: Willie Nelson American Outlaw, also featured the first ever duet between George Strait and Willie Nelson.
Eric Church was in attendance, performing a solo cover of “Me & Paul,” as well as joining Willie and Kris Kristofferson for a performance of “Me & Bobby McGee.” A double-dose of the “Me &” songs.
Released in 1985, “Me & Paul” was the title track from Willie’s album of the same name, a tribute to his longtime drummer and friend, Paul English. Paul passed away earlier this year at the age of 87.
The live album was released in December of last year, with Eric eventually treating his fans to a live performance video from that night.
