Eric Sleeper carries a unique, dreamy, and tangible vibe that sets him apart from his peers. Taking pride in bending multiple genres, he encapsulates indie, acoustic rock, and folk all to create his own distinctive sound. Directing focus toward his lyrical mind frame, Eric writes his songs to be captivating, riveting, and relatable. Taking inspiration from the likes of Bob Dylan, Nick Drake, Elliot Smith, Nirvana, Tom Waits, and Bon Iver, he values their minimalistic approach to songwriting.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Eric about his song Dragons, dream collabs, inspirations, and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
You have a new single out called “Dragons.” What about this song makes you most proud? Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?
I am proud of the lyrics in this song, that can be open for interpretation, along with the experimental instrumentation that accompanies it. My goal was to take listeners on a mental journey, realizing that sometimes what we are chasing is not what we need, and instead need to appreciate the process and the ride, keeping an open mind.
Your single artwork is really unique. Do you draw your own art or is there an artist you’d like to shout out?
All of my artwork is outsourced. An artist named Apd Tum has done my past few covers, and he is awesome.
Are you able to choose a favorite song of all time? Or would you label this an impossible task? If yes, what’s the song? If no, what’s your current Top 3?
This is impossible, as my favorites are always changing. My current top 3 would be “Sleeping on the Blacktop” by Colter Wall, “Wakin on a Pretty Day” by Kurt Vile and “Rose Parade” by Elliot Smith
What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?
I am inspired to create music because it is a way for me to express myself in a way that I never could otherwise. I feel at home and am completely in the moment. No matter what, my guitar is always there through thick and thin, and songwriting has always been a passion.
If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.
Mark Lanegan, rest in peace. He started in the Screaming Trees, then branched out to create solo albums which are my favorite, especially Blues Funeral. You can tell he was going through it in his work, and figuring things out, which we can all relate too, and can hear in his voice.
What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?
“Before the Beginning” by John Frusciante, cool experimental guitar record by my favorite guitarist. Some of my favorite artists are Nirvana, Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, Elliot Smith, etc.
Where is the best place for fans to find Eric Sleeper and stay connected?
Spotify! Also fallow me @ericsleepermusic on Instagram and Facebook
I appreciate Your time. Want to say or plug any other projects before we part ways?
Stay tuned to my social media for more announcements, more music to come!
