Erick Baker is an Emmy Award-winning writer, children’s book author, and heart-on-his-sleeve troubadour from Knoxville, Tennessee, known for his soulful voice, heartfelt songwriting, and captivating live performances.
Although he didn’t have a musical upbringing and had no formal voice training, Erick’s passion for music led him to teach himself how to play guitar after graduating from the University of Tennessee. Despite his late start, he has established himself as a highly regarded singer-songwriter, making a life in music for more than a decade with his unique blend of folk, rock, and country-soul.
At the heart of Erick’s music is his soulful voice – “a smoke and whiskey tenor with plenty of range and emotion” that defies comparison. Singing with a rare depth, passion, and sincerity, his songs can be felt as much as they can be heard. His introspective lyrics weave together vivid narratives and deeply personal experiences that resonate with fans from all walks of life.
His songs draw inspiration from classic songwriters like James Taylor, Otis Redding, and Van Morrison and stand shoulder to shoulder with contemporary songwriters like Jason Isbell, Chris Stapleton, Ray Lamontagne, and Amos Lee.
Praised for his passion and raw emotion, Erick’s live performances have earned him a reputation as a powerful live performer with the ability to stir the hearts of everyone in the room. His music has taken him around the world, sharing the stage with notable artists like John Legend, Brandi Carlile, Heart, the Goo Goo Dolls, Daughtry, Grace Potter, Chris Isaak, James Blunt, and Gavin DeGraw. In addition, Erick has had the honor of performing for the dedicated men and women in uniform stationed overseas.
In 2022, Erick paid tribute to one of his earliest musical inspirations, reinventing a well-known party classic with his acoustic cover of the Beastie Boys’ iconic anthem, “Fight for Your Right”. A testament to his talent and creativity, this stripped down, soulful reimagination leaves listeners with an entirely new appreciation for the song.
One of Erick’s fans perhaps summed it up best: “Erick Baker makes music that moves the soul.” But words alone cannot do justice to the power of Erick’s music – you just have to feel it for yourself.
In addition to his music career, Erick is also an Emmy Award-winning writer and children’s book author. Released in 2021, Erick’s first children’s book, “Willie the Weed”, is a contagiously optimistic tale filled with vivid illustrations and a heartwarming message that encourages children to be proud of who they are. Rooted in the belief that we are all born to reach for the sun and that “WE ALL BELONG”, Willie’s story of resilience sets a great example on how to overcome adversity and reminds young readers (and grown-up readers too) that when we plant a little kindness a lot of beautiful things can grow.