Billboard requires a JavaScript enabled browser to get the full experience

Eric Church, "Homeboy"

by Ken Tucker  |   April 08, 2011 10:00 EDT

Artists in this Article

Eric Church

Eric Church is a rarity: As a musician who built his fan base by playing rock clubs, the singer/ songwriter has never hidden his rock'n'roll sensibilities. But there's no doubt he's country to the core. His latest single, about two brothers who go their separate ways, does a fine job of bridging the gap between twang and tilt. The well-crafted tune employs the term "homeboy" in three distinct ways: first familiarly, then as an entreaty when the singer pursues his wayward brother to "come on home, boy," and finally, as a plea to his sibling to put his past behind him before his elderly parents are "called home, boy." The stellar song builds musically and thematically like a rock opera, and Church properly accentuates the epic journey that it documents.

Up for Discussion

Connect with

More Features

All features

All of Billboard.com's Great Lists

Billboard chart app

Billboard archives

Thanks For Joining Billboard

Log in to create your profile, speak your mind and connect with listeners like you.

Why Join ?

Don't just hear it. Live it. Go deeper than a casual listen: Voice your feelings, build a profile around your favorite music, connect with people who share your passions and discover new ones. Sign up for free.

Complete Your Registration at Billboard.com!

Haven't Joined Yet ?

For the full Billboard experience, you need to be a member. Sign up. It's free.

Join Billboard

Forgot your password?

Enter the e-mail address you used to sign up and we will email you the password .

Email Sent !

Your password has been sent to the email address you provided. Please sign in below :

Log In

Forget your password ?

Action Successful

We'd love to hear your feedback on the new Billboard.com!

Whether it's a feature request or a bug

We want to hear from you. Please use this form to anonymously give us your input.