ERIC CHURCH LAUNCHES 2026 WITH A TRIPLE THREAT: TOUR, IMAX FILM & LIVE ALBUM
On January 22, Eric Church set the tone for an exhilarating year with a performance at The Anthem in Washington, D.C., launching the second leg of his Free the Machine Tour. The show highlighted the powerful connection Church has with his audience, offering a close-up look at the energy and precision he brings to every stage. Known for pushing boundaries in country music, Church continues to captivate with his ability to deliver both electrifying moments and deeply personal performances. This kickoff coincides with an exciting time in his career, as his latest project, *Evangeline vs. The Machine*, is in the running for Best Contemporary Country Album at the upcoming GRAMMY Awards. The performance also marked a step forward for fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter of the tour, which promises to bring more of the unexpected and bold creativity Church has built his reputation on.
Photos By: Anthony D’Angio Every detail of the night, from the intimate atmosphere to the precision of the setlist, emphasized Church’s commitment to his artistry. For attendees, it was a preview of what’s ahead in the tour, showcasing his unique ability to balance massive ambition with raw, immediate connection. It’s clear that Church is focused on creating moments that resonate long after the lights go down.
Free the Machine Tour
The 2026 leg of Eric Church's Free the Machine Tour builds on the groundbreaking momentum established during last year’s run. Known for delivering performances that defy traditional concert norms, Church continues to redefine what it means to experience live music. This tour is crafted to merge the energy of large-scale productions with moments of close, personal connection, creating an atmosphere that feels both grand and immediate.
Fans can look forward to a carefully curated setlist that not only highlights Church’s GRAMMY-nominated recent work but also reimagines fan favorites in ways that feel fresh and unexpected. Each performance is elevated by a meticulously assembled team of musicians, adding layers of complexity and richness to the sound. Church’s reputation for immersing himself fully in the live experience is evident in every detail, from the innovative staging to the spontaneous interactions that make each night unique. The Free the Machine Tour is not just a showcase of his music but an extension of his creative vision, offering attendees a rare opportunity to see an artist operating at the peak of his abilities. With his characteristic intensity, Church invites fans into a space where boundaries are pushed, and live music feels truly alive.
New Live Release
Eric Church has unveiled a fresh live rendition of his chart-topping hit, "Give Me Back My Hometown," recorded during his standout performance at The Pinnacle in Nashville, Tennessee. This version breathes new life into the 2x Platinum track, delivering a sound that underscores the raw energy and layered dynamics of his live shows. The reimagined song captures the essence of Church’s evolving artistry, blending the familiarity of a fan-favorite with a bold, updated approach that highlights his ability to transform well-loved tracks into something entirely new.
This release is part of the highly anticipated *Evangeline vs. The Machine Comes Alive (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack), a 19-track collection set to hit shelves on February 13. Featuring performances that stretch beyond the confines of traditional live albums, the soundtrack reflects the ambition and creativity Church brings to every aspect of his music. The arrangement of "Give Me Back My Hometown," paired with the intricate instrumentation and vocal depth heard on the album, offers listeners a striking preview of the cinematic experience tied to this project. With each detail thoughtfully executed, this live version invites fans to reconnect with a familiar song while experiencing it through a completely revitalized lens, capturing the electrifying essence of Church’s live performances.
Click The Image Above To Hear The New Live Version Of Give Me back My Hometown Live At The PinnacleSpecial IMAX Film Event
Eric Church is bringing a fresh dimension to live music with the IMAX presentation of *Evangeline vs. The Machine Comes Alive*, set for limited screenings on February 11 and 14. Captured during two nights at The Pinnacle in Nashville, Tennessee, this immersive film offers a front-row seat to a performance that redefines the concert experience. Church’s GRAMMY-nominated eighth studio album serves as the centerpiece, performed in its entirety, before flowing seamlessly into reimagined hits from his extensive catalog.
Eric Church is joined by team members at the Jan. 21, 2026 screening of his IMAX film in Nashville, Tenn. (L to R: John Peets, Q Prime South President & Founder; Mike Harris, MCA President & CEO; Stephanie Wright, MCA EVP/Head of A&R; Eric Church; Robert Femia, MCA COO & EVP Business & Legal Affairs; Katie McCartney, MCA EVP/General Manager)The production pulls together a dynamic ensemble of talent, including a six-piece band, a horn section, strings, a full choir, and powerhouse vocalist Joanna Cotten. Each element contributes to a soundscape that feels vast yet intricately detailed, amplifying the emotional and sonic impact of the performance. Shot specifically for IMAX, the film capitalizes on the format’s ability to capture the smallest nuances while immersing viewers in a grand-scale experience. Church Choir members were recently treated to an exclusive screening, further underscoring the care Church takes in connecting with his core fanbase. Through this project, Church continues to explore uncharted territory in how live music can be shared and experienced, offering fans an opportunity to witness his artistry from a perspective rarely achieved.
Momentum in Modern Country Music
Eric Church's approach to modern country music consistently redefines the connection between artist and audience. His commitment to delivering immersive experiences has set a new standard for live performances, challenging the traditional boundaries of the genre. By blending innovative production techniques with a deep focus on emotional authenticity, Church creates moments that feel both expansive and deeply personal. His ability to reimagine well-loved songs while showcasing fresh material highlights an artistry that is as fearless as it is thoughtful.
This forward-thinking mindset is evident in how he incorporates diverse musical elements, whether through rich arrangements or bold collaborations, to push his sound into new territories. Church's projects consistently demonstrate a balance between ambition and precision, ensuring that every detail serves the larger narrative of his music. As he continues to evolve, his influence is reshaping what fans expect from modern country music, proving that the genre can thrive on creativity and reinvention. With every project, Church reinforces his role as a leader who refuses to settle into complacency. His work is a testament to how far country music can go when driven by innovation, passion, and a relentless focus on connecting with listeners in meaningful and unexpected ways.
