Eric Church, a country music superstar from Western North Carolina, has released “Darkest Hour,” a heartfelt ballad that marks his first new music in three years. This song expresses his deep emotions and commitment to help his community.

In an effort to support his home state following the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, Church has announced that he will donate all the publishing royalties from this new track to the people of North Carolina.

The impact of Hurricane Helene has been devastating, claiming hundreds of lives and leaving millions without power. The hurricane has caused significant flooding, prompting water rescues across Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The news has been filled with reports of homes swept away, collapsed bridges, a rising death toll, missing persons, and hazardous travel conditions.

In a statement, Church describes “Darkest Hour” as a tribute to “unsung heroes” who step up when things are tough.

Geeing up for Community Concerns in ‘Darkest Hour’

“This song is for those who help during the toughest times, offering support when it’s most necessary and standing strong when others can’t. Even in your darkest hour, they show up,” he emphasizes. “This is for those shining a light during the darkest nights, guiding the lost and helping us through.”

The song reflects Church’s and his team’s worries about the well-being of family, friends, and neighbors who need help, underscoring the urgency of its release, which comes earlier than his planned schedule.

“It felt wrong to delay the release of this song. Sometimes songs find their moment, and this is one of those times,” says the artist of “Springsteen.”

“Through ‘Darkest Hour,’ I felt this was the best way to contribute. We’ve been actively involved in relief efforts, but this song represents a way to help that will have a lasting impact. Recovery won’t be quick, and I hope ‘Darkest Hour’ can aid in that process over time. This song belongs to my home, North Carolina, now and always.”

Adjusting Plans in Light of Hurricane Helene

On September 29, Church shared on Instagram that “everyone who knows me understands how much North Carolina and especially this mountainous region means to me, both personally and artistically.” He announced that due to the destruction in the area, he would be postponing a live event scheduled for September 30 at his Nashville venue, Chief’s, to November 19.

“We are thinking of all the families and first responders; you’re in our thoughts, and we’re doing everything we can to assist you during this difficult time,” he added.

Additionally, Church has stated that his Chief Cares organization will support North Carolina as well as all affected states and communities, stretching from Appalachia to the Gulf.

For further details, visit EricChurch.com.