In 2006, when Eric Church was getting his career started he landed the dream gig of opening for Rascal Flatts on the 'Me and My Gang' tour.  However, he wouldn't be with them very long!

As with the case with any tour, opening acts are only allowed a certain performance time.  Church, excited to promote his debut CD, and show off his performance skills, was playing too long and too loud during his 'opening' act set.  Sadly, this led to his dismal from the tour.  Church was replaced by Taylor Swift.

Church insists that this was probably the best thing to ever happen to him, as he started to play more and more clubs and developed a large and loyal fan base.  Now, all of his fans, known as the 'Church Choir,' look forward to the 'Drink In My Hand' singer playing too long and too loud every night!

The 19th annual WGNA Countryfest: Saturday July 7th at the Times Union Center, 51 South Pearl Street, Albany, NY. Tickets $24.50 - $55.00; buy them from Ticketmaster or at the door.

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