Eric Church Breaks Into Own Hall of Fame Induction
After wrapping earlier than expected at a private event in his home state, Eric found himself only an hour and a half away from the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame ceremony where his mother, Rita Church, accompanied by his sister Kendra, were attending the induction to accept the invitation on his behalf. Realizing he had no time to spare, Eric borrowed the keys to his father Ken's vehicle and--with his wife Katherine and assistant Marshall Alexander in tow--they rushed in an attempt to make it to the Gem Theater in time for the dedication. While Alexander drove, Eric was busy texting his sister--unbeknownst to her or the hundreds in attendance--to see if he could arrive in time as he now had set his mind on attending and surprising the crowd.
When only a few miles away, Eric learned his mother had stepped on stage to read her remarks of gratitude for the honor, but instead of chalking it up to a missed opportunity, Alexander and the Church's proceeded on, whipping the SUV into an alley where they hoped a back entrance existed to the theater. There, the trio spotted cords snaking into a second level balcony entrance, and without hesitation or clarification, Alexander scaled the wall to gauge the scene, bursting through backstage balcony barn doors. Startling a group of musicians prepared to take the stage next to close out the ceremony, Alexander confirmed that indeed Rita Church was currently on stage speaking to the black tie clad crowd. Always resourceful, Alexander grabbed a nearby ladder and threw it over the edge, urging the Church's to hurriedly ascend in order to make it in time for Rita's closing remarks.
Rita continued, "...and on behalf of our family, my son, the fans..." then her speech was interrupted by an eruption of screams and applause as Eric stepped on stage to echo her sentiments and thank the crowd.
But before he could leave, the crowd demanded their Hall of Fame inductee play something. Unprepared having barely made it for the ceremony, the North Carolinian borrowed a beat up electric guitar, and said, "well, let's see what I can play in whatever key this is in..." And with that, Church played a new solo rendition of "Carolina" before exiting down the ladder, getting back into the car, and heading back home.
Mother's love there boys and are always available to talk and praise them anytime we get chances. Rita, so glad you were there and so glad Eric got his sweet Mama's hug right there on stage! Nothing like our babies hugs!!!
That's a hilarious story! Great photo, too.
The sweetest picture!
So great that could happen. Mom was so proud, and rightfully so.
That is so Awesome, Eric is really a kind hearted man that loves to see his mom, wife, & kids happy. No wonder he is so blessed with a great voice because he truly understands people are more important than fame. Much Love to All!! Congrats Eric & Family!
NICE!!!!!!!!! :)
For those that did not make it...here is my personal video...it starts at the intro before Mama Rita is introduced....it’s over 8 minutes in total...Rita, solo, has over 5 minutes. She is a lovely, graceful well spoken woman. https://www.facebook.com/lisalambornadams/videos/vb.745662319/10153679965952320/?type=3&theater
Good hearted guy, EC -- You really are full of class and conviction... You'll forever be loved for your integrity!!! Show 'em how North Carolina peeps get it done and do it right!!! ;)
I know someone had to get this on video... Please share it with us! Love EC's spirit! A man that loves his momma like he does is tops in my book! #KEEPONrockin'
This is why Eric has such a loyal fan base. What another awesome story. I bet this made his Momma's night!
Loving it, thanks everyone for sharing!
Great story! I just love him and the fact that he made it work!! btw, Marshall ROCKS :)
A night that I will never forget! Thank you so much for everything you do and your music and congratulations!!
I love this story. So awesome. I know his mother and family are proud of him.
A class act, a great story, and a memorable performance for so many. He did not let his hometown fans down!!
Love this!
And this my friends is yet just Another reason to add to why we all Love this man soo much.. As if we didn't already have enough reasons:-)
He is such a stand up guy! Doesn't surprise me one bit that he would do this. And this is why he has the best community of fans. We just love you man!
Thank you Eric for making this night so special. This is while I'll be a church choir member for life, such a great entertainer and cares about his fans again thank you!!!!!!
I love this story!!!! My husband and I danced to "Carolina" at our wedding. It might sound strange to some, but the song has meaning to us!!!! Every time I hear it I just grin from ear to ear!!!!
Bet that was fantastic!
Awesome story!