"Looking forward to this one, @morganwallen!" Church wrote on social media.

Eric Church and his fans will have “one hell of a night” at Minneapolis’ U.S. Bank Stadium when the “Chief” brings his high-energy live show to the venue on Saturday, June 11. The “Heart on Fire” singer announced on Wednesday (March 2) his second official headlining stadium show of the summer, dubbed “One Hell of a Night,” and will welcome Morgan Wallen and Ernest for the concert.

“Looking forward to this one, @morganwallen!” Church wrote on social media in his announcement.

Wallen responded in his own post by sharing the the announcement and captioning it: “If you know much about me, you know how big of a deal this is. One of the greatest honors in my career to be opening for @ericchurchmusic.”

Church previously teased the announcement on social media by sharing a photo of himself onstage with Wallen, from Wallen’s surprise appearance at Church’s Philadelphia show in October 2021, as part of Church’s current The Gather Again tour. During that concert, Wallen and Church collaborated on songs including Wallen’s “Sand in My Boots,” “Whiskey Glasses,” and “Quittin’ Time,” a track Church has a writing credit on that appears on Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album project.

Church who is a co-writer on Wallen’s hit release Dangerous: The Double Album, previously denounced the “Wasted on You” singer’s use of the N-word after a video surfaced of Wallen using the slur in early 2021. “That was indefensible. I was heartbroken when it happened,” Church told Billboard in April 2021. “I think Morgan’s trying to work on that and on himself. And I hope he does.”

Meanwhile, Ernest and Wallen are at No. 21 on Billboard‘s Hot Country Songs chart with Ernest’s “Flower Shops,” featuring Wallen. The song will be included on Ernest’s upcoming project Flower Shops (The Album), set to release March 11. As a songwriter, Ernest was a contributor to 11 tracks on Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album.

Church will also headline a stadium show in Milwaukee over Memorial Day weekend on Saturday, May 28, with Brothers Osborne and Parker McCollum joining him at American Family Field.

Tickets for Church’s Minneapolis stadium show featuring Wallen and Ernest will go on sale March 11 at 10 a.m. local time.

See Church’s announcement and Wallen’s response below:

Kelly Rowland has shared some heartfelt guidance for KATSEYE as the girl group faces a challenging period, with Sophia Laforteza and Manon Bannerman temporarily stepping away to prioritise their mental health.

Having experienced worldwide fame at an early age with Destiny’s Child, Kelly understands the intense pressure that comes with success and changes within a group. During an interview with Rolling Stone, she encouraged the KATSEYE members to look after their own needs while continuing to stand by one another.

She explained: “In an industry as fast-paced as music, where there are constantly eyes on you and pressure to keep rising, your health is one of the most sacred things you have.

“I learned during my time in Destiny’s Child that you can show up for your fans and your group while still honouring what you need as an individual.”

Kelly then revealed what she would personally tell the group: “My advice to the KATSEYE girls would be to listen to themselves, be kind to themselves, and continue supporting one another through every season.”

As KATSEYE continue their Wildworld tour, Kelly also highlighted the importance of making space to recharge: “Especially on tour, it’s so important to intentionally carve out time to rest and reset in their daily routines. Taking care of your mind and body is what allows you to bounce back, stay resilient, and keep doing what you love.”

KATSEYE began their Wildworld tour on Tuesday (01.09.26), although neither Sophia nor Manon was present.

Sophia discussed her decision on Instagram Stories, telling fans: “I cannot express how much I want to participate in this tour and perform for you all. I have to remind myself every day that our health and mental wellbeing should always be prioritised.

“When I show up for you, I want you to get the best version of me. I've been in ongoing treatment and doing everything I can to stay healthy, occupied and happy.

“You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s important to care for yourself.”

KATSEYE later posted an official announcement on Instagram, saying: “We would like to share an update regarding Sophia’s upcoming schedule.

“Sophia is focusing on her wellbeing, and the company remains fully committed to providing her with all the support and resources needed.”

Signed by HYBE and Geffen Records, the announcement verified that Sophia “will not be participating in the Wildworld Tour in Europe and the UK”.

However, no reference was made to the group’s scheduled performances in North America.

The statement added: “We sincerely ask for EYEKONS’ warm understanding, as our highest priority will always be the health and long-term well-being of our artists.

“We will share further updates as they become available. Please continue to send your love, warmth, and support to Sophia and KATSEYE.”

Sophia also expressed her appreciation for the care she has received from her management team and fellow members while dealing with her health concerns.

She added: “There’s been nothing but love and support from the company, my members, and everyone else around me as I work to get well. I can’t wait until I return and share the stage with my sisters again.

“They’re gonna put on an extraordinary performance for you. Trust me, I’ve been watching and they’re absolutely giving.”

Ending her message with gratitude, she told supporters: “I love you all so much. Thank you for understanding.”

The Pinky Up singers, whose lineup also includes Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung, have appeared with five members since February after Manon took a break to concentrate on her “health and wellbeing”. Sophia’s temporary absence means the group is currently performing with four members.

CONTINUE READING