Eric Church’s 6 Best Songs Ranked—From ‘Drink in My Hand’ to ‘Springsteen’

Country musician Eric Church is known for his consistent hits and lyrical prowess—as well as his signature aviator shades. The award-winning star from North Carolina has built quite a career for himself over the years, with songs that have made our backyard barbecue playlists every summer. Currently, the country star is enjoying life on his “Free the Machine Tour,” which features special guests such as Elle King, Marcus King Band and Charles Wesley Godwin. In May, he released his latest album, Evangeline vs. The Machine. 

“Music is the way I’ve dealt with anything good or bad in my life,” Church told USA Today earlier in the year. “I’m a fan first. Music was this siren for me at an early age and has always been the thing I’ve leaned on when I’ve had struggles, devastation, triumphs.” At 48 years old, there’s still tons more on the horizon for Eric Church, and we can’t wait for what else he has in store. Here, take a look at his six best songs, ranked. 

6. ‘Give Me Back My Hometown’ (2014)

In “Give Me Back My Hometown,” Church reflects on all the things he loves most about the place he came from, but acknowledges the fact that a lot of the positive memories he has of the place have been tarnished by an ex-lover. 

Church sings, “You can have my grandma’s locket/The knife out of my grandpa’s pocket/Yeah my state champion jacket/I don’t care you can have it,” but continues, “Give me back my hometown/’Cause this is my hometown.”

5. ‘Kill a Word’ (2015)

One of the lyrically clever songs he’s known for, on “Kill a Word,” Church sings about the things he wishes he could put an end to. Words like “never,” “goodbye,” “fear,” “hate” and “heartbreak” are just a few that make the list in this 2015 classic. 

4. ‘Talladega’ (2014)

“Talladega” tells a nostalgic story in which Church reflects on a memory where he and his friends drove to Talladega together. Though it’s long gone, it’s something he looks back on fondly throughout the song. 

“We were laughing and living, drinking and wishing/And thinking as that checkered flag was waving/Sure would like to stay in Talladega.”

3. ‘Desperate Man’ (2018)

This soulful, upbeat track describes none other than a desperate man, looking for some sort of solution or answer for his problems wherever he might find it. 

2. ‘Drink in My Hand’ (2011)

This track is a certified country classic. The lyrics paint a pretty simple picture: After a long week of grinding away at work, all he wants is to unwind with a drink in his hand and enjoy his time away from the hustle. 

1. ‘Springsteen’ (2011)

On “Springsteen,” Church reflects on memories of a young love affair set against the backdrop of the music of Bruce Springsteen.