Eric Church paid tribute to the late rock legend, Meat Loaf, on Saturday (Jan. 22) with a special performance in Detroit on his Gather Again Tour.
As the country superstar’s performance came to a close in Michigan, the North Carolina native honored Meat Loaf with a performance of his 1993 hit, “I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That),” which prompted a roaring sing-along with the capacity.
Church concluded his performance of the rock hit as he pointed to the Heavens above and then launched into his chart-topping tune, “Springsteen.”
“I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That)” is the lead single from Meat Loaf’s sixth studio album, Bat Out Of Hell II: Back Into Hell. The song went on to become his first career chart-topper and only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Lovely Meat Loaf tribute last night from @ericchurch. pic.twitter.com/7kTVUe2DMY
— Courtney Hoekstra (@cshillz) January 23, 2022
One more: @ericchurch salutes @RealMeatLoaf at @LCArena_Detroit @313Presents pic.twitter.com/BaOC1X4NJY
— Gary Graff (@GraffonMusic) January 23, 2022
@ericchurch great tribute last night! pic.twitter.com/t3gorzucUp
— KB (@kevski51) January 23, 2022
In addition to paying tribute to Meat Loaf, Church also honored Bob Seger, a rock ‘n roll Hall of Famer from Detroit, who Church opened for in 2006 after being kicked off a Rascal Flatts’ tour.
“He saved my career,” Church told the crowd. “I would not be standing here if it was not for Bob Seger.”
Church performed two tracks by the hometown hero, including “Get Out Of Denver” and “Ramblin’ Gamblin Man.”
Meat Loaf died on January 20, 2022, at the age of 74.
The popular rock singer’s family shared the sad news on his Facebook page on Friday (Jan. 21), just one day after his passing.
“Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight surrounded by his wife Deborah, daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends,” a statement on Facebook read.
“His amazing career spanned 6 decades that saw him sell over 100 Million albums worldwide and star in over 65 movies, including ‘Fight Club,’ ‘Focus,’ ‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’ and ‘Wayne’s World,’” the family’s statement continued. “‘Bat Out of Hell’ remains one of the top 10 selling albums of all time.”
“We know how much he meant to so many of you, and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man,” the family added. “We thank you for your understanding of our need for privacy at this time. From his heart to your souls… don’t ever stop rocking!”
Born in Dallas, Texas, in 1947 as Marvin Lee Aday, Meat Loaf’s debut album, released in 1977, Bat Out Of Hell, is still one of the top 10 selling albums of all time. In 1993, The rock’n roll legend released a follow-up LP, Bat Out Of Hell II: Back Into Hell.
The projects spawned hits, including “Paradise By The Dashboard Lights,” “Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad,” and “I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That).”
In 1993, Meat Loaf took home a GRAMMY for Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance for his single, “I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That).”
The famed singer was survived by his wife Deborah, and two daughters, Pearl and Amanda.
