Captivating audiences since his teenage years, Eric Travers has solidified his status as a seasoned musician in the vibrant Asheville music scene. Hailing from the mountains of Black Mountain, NC, Travers first made his mark as the heartbeat behind an acclaimed Rock n Roll, Jam Band, Travers Brothership, which he co-founded with his brother Kyle at just 13 years old. Over the past 15+ years, the group has amassed an impressive catalog of 35+ published tracks and extensive touring experience. Now 31, Travers has reached new heights in 2024 with the release of his latest single, "Dead End Street," and his new role as Owner and CEO of the All Aboard Records label. Drawing from his diverse musical background in rock, Americana, and blues, Travers' emotive performances and melodic sensibilities have earned him a dedicated following across Western North Carolina and beyond, cementing his role in the local music scene. With the launch of his latest project, the Eric Travers Band, this versatile multi-instrumentalist is primed to take his artistry to thrilling new levels.1. Background and Music CareerHow did you get started in music? What inspired you to pursue it as a career?My father was a career musician who always had instruments and fellow musicians around. My first "real" drumset was gifted to me when I was 8-9 years old. It became a dream of mine when I received praise and applause from my cousins playing air guitar at the age of 3 and 4. I was inspired to start a career in music because I made enough money to barely get by as a musician and this was my end goal. All or none. I sought out a living and a labor of love.When did you first start performing and touring?My first performance was for my school, performing an Elvis Christmas song with my twin brother and father. Performing regularly started when I was 15, with my brother, playing shows from Brevard, NC all the way to Marion, NC as "Travers Brothers Band / Caution Tape", a four piece Rock n' Roll outfit with a 2010, 10 track LP. Our bandmate's father helped us with transportation for 3 years. Touring started after my time freed up, at the age of 17. (When we could drive). I made the choice to leave college for the career in music. Now the band was performing for only $200 every Thursday in Greensboro, NC. A 2 1/2 hour drive from our hometown, Black Mountain, NC.How would you describe your musical style, and how has it evolved over time?My music style is American roots music. When I was 11-13 my band "The Predatorz" played strictly Rock n' Roll like Jimi Hendrix and ZZ Top. I started playing piano and acoustic guitar at this time which was strictly music by The Beatles. "Caution Tape--> Travers Brothers Band" then came along at 14-17. And the Rock n Roll became more jam band oriented with extended guitar solos influenced by The Allman Brothers Band. Then, groove oriented funk music became a thing.My brother and I founded a very successful touring band at the age of 18 called Travers Brothership. In 2012 our debut release was very progressive, soulful, funk and rock group. For the next 4 years we toured with 7 members performing what we called "funkadelic" music. Our 3 piece horn (brass) section helped color this genre.In 2016 the lineup changed back to the original 4 members of the band including my twin brother. We had no choice but to return to a jammy, Rock n' Roll vibe to keep audiences on their toes. We had to stick to our guns and give the audience a powerful sound to make up for 3 lost players in the band.2. The Traveling ExperienceWhat is the most exciting part about traveling for your music?The most exciting part is seeing landmarks, going to new places, seeing national parks and observing the different arts and cultures.How do you typically prepare for a tour? Does your preparation change depending on where you’re performing?When preparing for tour I have to make sure my drumset is ready for performance. All items must be accounted for in our vehicle and/or trailer. In the beginning I required everyone to have foodstamps. We got by with very little. When we were traveling for longer lengths of time we brought more clothes and made sure our vehicle was in proper condition. Eating nutriously required extra packing which was always tough because everyone's priorities are different. Our preparation will change if we are traveling further, flying or if we need our clothes to be nicer. Dressing accordingly is just one step "above" the audience - say, if the audience has T-shirts, we wear button downs.How do you stay grounded and connected to home while you’re on the road?Staying connected to home always came with forfeiting home for the road. My dog traveled with me everywhere. The road and music were my home and a way of life.Have you ever had a surprising or unexpected cultural experience while performing in a different country or city?New Orleans, LA was a culture shock. The large but small music community was humbling. The ...
続きを読む
一部表示
