Eric Church Makes His ‘Austin City Limits’ Debut

While most people were at home, relaxing in front of the TV after a long workday, a lucky few hundred were soaking in the all-out country music party that was Eric Church's 'Austin City Limits' taping on Tuesday night (Sept. 23).

Red Solo cup in hand, the star took the esteemed stage in the heart of the Live Music Capital, delivering a list of hit songs in addition to a stream of energy and some scattered quips. 'Drink in My Hand,' 'Cold One,' 'Homeboy' and of course 'Springsteen' ... Church let the songs roll out, playing more to the crowd than the television cameras. A true fan's artist.

But he didn't need to try too hard to impress the mix of hardcore country fanatics, local music lovers, industry personnel and those who were just intrigued enough to check out the show. People stood, danced, clapped and cheered on all three levels of Austin's Moody Theater, lapping up Church's sound like ice cream on a hot day.

The singer turned it down a notch for a few songs, including 'Give Me Back My Hometown,' brought the heart and funny stories with those like 'Sinners Like Me,' and somehow even got the excited crowd to put up their boots -- literally, boots were waving above the heads of most on the standing-room-only floor -- during a rockin' 'These Boots.'

True to form, the 'Chief' star never once removed those dark sunnies. Eric Church's 'Austin City Limits' episode (also featuring J. Roddy Walston & the Business) airs Nov. 15 on PBS.

So, Who Is Eric Church?