Eric Church and Rhiannon Giddens Duet on Powerful ‘Kill a Word’ at 2016 CMA Awards

Eric Church celebrated his 2016 CMA Awards win for Album of the Year with an understated take on his song "Kill a Word."

Church's performance of the song started in a unique way: For the first verse, the camera framed a close-up of Church's face, which was lit by dim light and had various words projected on it. The perspective then switched to a wider view to show Church, his band and guest Rhiannon Giddens — although those same words appeared on screens behind them for the rest of the performance.

Giddens, who recently joined the cast of Nashville, was at first subtle, matching Church's own restrained vocals; however, she let loose as the song progressed, taking a few lyrics herself and then providing counter-harmonies to the verses, before decreasing her volume for the chorus. Still, her presence made a sizable impact: At the end of the song, Church clasped his hands and bowed to Giddens, acknowledging her presence and talents.

Church is a two-time CMA Awards winner and was nominated for five trophies in 2016. On Nov. 4, Church will release a special live album, recorded during two sold-out shows at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in August.

Top 10 CMA Awards Moments

Unforgettable CMA Awards Controversies