Singer-Songwriter Eric Erdman not only wrote and sings many of your favorite Trop Rock songs and is a multiple-time Trop Rock Music Association Songwriter of the Year, he is also the co-writer of Stone’s Throw, a two-time RIAA Gold Certified hit performed by the Red Clay Strays.

Eric started writing songs at eight years old, sitting at the end of his family's pier on Mobile Bay, Alabama.

For many years he fronted a funk-rock band – Ugli Stick - that toured USO stops from Afghanistan to Dubai.

He cut his teeth as a staff songwriter at the legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals.

And these days, on top of a killer solo catalog, he's the guy behind "Stone's Throw" — a hit for the Red Clay Strays — and co-writer on "Caddo County," which landed on the Grammy-nominated Twisters soundtrack.

For nearly eight years running he's dropped a brand new song every single Friday without fail.

Eric is a true guitar-slinging troubadour.

In this far-reaching interview with Bill Hurley, Eric takes us deep into his songwriting techniques and philosophy and talks about how the Trop Rock community has welcomed and supported him.

Beach Maniac Island Music Podcast (Audio):

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Singer-Songwriter Eric Erdman not only wrote and sings many of your favorite Trop Rock songs and is a multiple-time Trop Rock Music Association Songwriter of the Year, he is also the co-writer of Stone’s Throw, a two-time RIAA Gold Certified hit performed by the Red Clay Strays.

In this far-reaching interview with Bill Hurley, Eric takes us deep into his songwriting techniques and philosophy and talks about how the Trop Rock community has welcomed and supported him.

Video Segments:

Eric Erdman talks about the honor of earning two RIAA Gold Certifications for co-writing the song Stone's Throw, performed by the Red Clay Strays.

Eric talks about the craft of songwriting.

Eric talks about the story behind his popular Trop Rock song Family Tree, which he co-wrote with Donny Brewer, also performed by Sunny Jim, Thom Shepherd, Coley McCabe and Carrie Welling.

Eric Erdman talks about the story behind his popular song 12 Notes and 26 Letters, which is about songwriting but also a metaphor for how people need to focus not on what they have but what they do with what they have.

Eric tells the story behind his popular and humorous Trop Rock song Overseas In Oklahoma.

Eric talks about the story behind his popular Trop Rock song The Wave, co-written with Donny Brewer.

Highlights:

Eric Erdman, a notable figure in the trop rock music scene, reflects on his journey from a young songwriter to a celebrated artist. His story is one of community, creativity, and the magic of collaboration.

Finding His Place in Trop Rock

Eric's entry into the trop rock genre is an interesting tale. Initially, he didn't see himself fitting in. "I don’t know if I’m considered a legend of trop rock, but I appreciate you saying that," he said. His friend Wes Loper introduced him to the Trop Rock community, and although he started with few island-themed songs, the welcoming nature of the scene allowed him to explore and grow as a songwriter. "They could have easily just been like, this guy doesn’t fit our thing, but they were like, he’s close, give him a chance."

Key Collaborations and Hit Songs

Eric discusses the collaborative spirit that drives much of his songwriting. He believes that co-writing can expedite the creative process, stating, "I know something in this is magic. (Sometimes) I am unable to pull it out on my own."

The Essence of Community in Music

One of Eric's most beloved songs, "Family Tree," written with Donny Brewer, beautifully encapsulates the essence of the Trop Rock community. The idea stemmed from Eric's gratitude towards the community that embraced him. "When I see inflatable palm trees, it just represents the community, this welcoming, beautiful thing. That’s our family tree," he explained. The collaborative effort to write the song with fellow artists was a testament to the strong bonds within the Trop Rock family.

Songwriting as a Journey

In discussing his writing process, Eric shares that great songs often take time. "You want to play this song for the rest of your life and your grandchildren," he reminds us, emphasizing the importance of patience in songwriting. He also nots that while some songs might come easily, others require significant effort and collaboration to reach their full potential.

Eric's journey as a troubadour is a reminder of the power of music to bring people together, and his story resonates with anyone who appreciates the beauty of community and creativity in the arts.

Eric also talks about:

His two RIAA Gold Certifications for Stone’s Throw, performed by the Red Clay Strays.
His songs The Wave, Overseas In Oklahoma, 12 Notes and 26 Letters, Enough, Caddo County, and more.
His Fresh Song Friday, where he introduces a new song every week.
What makes a perfectly crafted song.
Performing for small crowds (such as House Concerts) versus performing for up to 20,000 fans on a big stage.
And Much More!