Eric Essix

Erics earliest musical experiences were hearing the Beatles on Ed Sullivan and singing gospel in the church choir. His grandfather bought his first guitar and amplifier, and he taught himself to play by listening to LP's by Stevie Wonder, The Jackson 5 and Al Green. His first exposure to jazz was Wes Montgomery's, California Dreaming and later he discovered the music of Jimi Hendrix. A life-changing experience in 1977 at a Weather Report concert influenced Eric's desire to play and compose instrumental music.



After joining the band Souvenir and playing the Birmingham club scene for 3 years, Eric produced a solo record called First Impressions that landed him a deal with Los Angeles based jazz label Nova Records. He quickly followed with Second Thoughts which produced the national radio hits Come September and First Out.



After graduating from Boston's prestigious Berklee College of Music in 1993, Eric released Third Degree Burn featuring a band of his fellow classmates. Touring cross country for two years with this group inspired his fourth recording, a powerful concert performance called Eric Essix & Modern Man, LIVE! Albums 5&6 were for Nashvilles Tribute/Diadem label: Beautiful Music, Guitar and the compilation, Just Like You.



In 1998, Eric was signed by Ricky Schultz at Zebra Records (WEA) and released Small Talk, topping the smooth jazz radio charts with the single, "For Real". In 2000 he returned "home" to his roots with the release of Southbound on Zebra which produced another top 10 smooth jazz radio single, the classic Rainy Night in Georgia.



Now signed to the Essential Recordings label, Eric has partnered with Lightyear Entertainment to distribute his latest release, Birmingham, worldwide through EMI in January 2009! This follows his four prior recordings on Essential: "Abide With Me", "Somewhere In Alabama" "Retrospective" and "The Modern Man Recordings".



For all guitarists out there, I have found the "Holy Grail" of guitar amps in the Samamp! This thing is amazing! Incredible tone, unbelievable overdrive clarity, versatility and innovative design. It is now a permanent part of my set up and has added so much to my playing. I want everybody to check out this new amp at www.samamp.com and then run to your nearest dealer for a test drive.you won't believe your ears!!!