Eric Church Honors Hardy: A Look at Nashville's Top Songwriter

Eric Church Honors Hardy: A Look at Nashville's Top Songwriter

Eric Church received the ACM Icon award at the 2025 ACM Honors ceremony, where he praised Hardy's songwriting skills. Despite never collaborating with Church, Hardy has established himself as one of Nashville's top songwriters, having penned numerous No. 1 singles for artists like Florida Georgia Line, Thomas Rhett, and Morgan Wallen. Hardy's success extends to his own music, with three No. 1 singles to his credit. Church and Hardy are both currently on tour, with Church having achieved 10 No. 1 songs on the Billboard Country charts. Hardy, whose full name is Michael Wilson Hardy, will conclude his Jim Bob Tour in New York City, while Church's Free the Machine Tour will run through November.