Erath Old

Erath Old is a musician who has been to music row and back. He has lived the life of a starving artist. While he hasn’t literally starved, he has made many sacrifices to pursue his dream. The LEAF had the recent privilege to sit down with this local artist and learn more about his love of music.
WHO ARE YOU?
I’m complicated and sometimes can’t figure my own self out. I’m just like everyone else but with a huge passion for music. As an artist, singing and songwriting are big parts of my life, but I really care about my family and wife. I used to want to be big time famous, but that doesn’t mean anything now. I would be missing out on the things that I gave up for 13 years, the things that truly mattered. I just want to play my own music, be successful, and keep a balanced life.
HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN YOUR STYLE OF MUSIC?
My music is pop rock, pop country with a little rock edge thrown in the mix. I’ve always been told that I sound like Keith Urban and even a little bit like Kip Moore, so the country undertones are definitely there.
WHATS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN YOUR ARTISTRY WHEN YOU STARTED TO NOW?
Through the years of playing many different styles, I’ve been able to master how my voice sounds. I’ve been involved with alternative and country bands, just to name a few. I’ve always hated my voice, but in the last few years, I’ve really come to find it and who I am. I’ve been writing music and singing countless covers to my own liking. Right now is the first time I’ve ever been fully content as an artist.
WHAT ARE SOME OBSTACLES YOU HAVE FACED IN THIS INDUSTRY?
The obstacles in the music industry are fairly the same for each artist. Money can make you or break you. Can you afford a manager, merch term, a social media team, etc.? So many people and aspects go into helping an artist become successful. I’ve gone through times of sleeping on my brother’s couch and not really knowing if I was going to make it in this business. I had to take it day by day and not let my struggles consume my thoughts. I had to prioritize things to make it happen.
DO YOU HAVE ANY CURRENT PROJECTS IN THE WORKS?
We are working on an EP right now, but have released two songs already to let people know about some of my music. We are also working on a music video for my new single, “Hey Y’all”.
HOW CAN PEOPLE GET IN CONTACT WITH YOU?
For more information, pics, videos, schedule and contact info go to www.erathold.com.
As I sat there at the smoky Pub 261 bar, I was in complete awe of Erath’s journey and passion for music. He then jumped up onto the stage, grabbed his guitar and let out a good ole, “Hey Y’all!” Automatically, he had the crowd’s attention with his vibrant spirit and constant smile. He started the acoustic session with “Somebody Like You” by Keith Urban, to whom he has an uncanny sound resemblance. He transitioned into “Slide” by Goo Goo Dolls, “Hurt So Good” by John Mellencamp and my favorite, “All About You” by Erath himself. I’m not sure about everyone else, but I sat there like putty in his hands as he brought life to each song. His raspy outlaw tone jumped and leaped with witty voice inflections, which was the cherry on top. Raw talent was portrayed with each passing lyric and told the story of a young boy turned man…turned musician.
Questions or comments for Kayla? Kgay10@att.net - The Leaf Magazine