Fast-rising country star Eric Church gave the crowd a double dose of both blue collar soul and wistfulness with a top-notch performance of 'Springsteen' at the 2012 CMA Awards. The song is also nominated in three categories in tonight's awards.

Clad in his trademark ball cap and sunglasses, the rebellious singer delivered his touching recollection of love -- set to the soundtrack of the Boss, Bruce Springsteen -- with a dose of grit and a surprise: He threw in a verse of Springsteen's classic hit 'Born to Run,' much to the delight of the capacity crowd.

Church himself has been creating the soundtrack to a whole new generation of future musicians. He is nominated in five categories tonight, including Male Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year. Additionally, ''Springsteen' is nominated for Single of the Year, Song of the Year, and Music Video of the Year.

Watch Eric Church Perform 'Springsteen' at the 2012 CMA Awards

More From Taste of Country