His first instruments were his Grandpa's accordion, an old one string guitar he found in the trash near Cleveland, Ohio and trash cans turned upside down for drums. He also started making sound effects, imitating anything he heard, birds, police sirens, car alarms etc. He often entertained at lunch, parks, bus stops, ball games, and school. It was there that he began collaborating with other local artists. Their demo caught the ears of famed keyboardist, musician, composer, writer and multi-award winner, Keith Harrison. Keith was a source of encouragement and constant inspiration to Eric. He introduced him to several talented musicians, The Dazz Band, Keith Wilder of Heatwave and Morris Day and the Time. Eric has also met members of the Ohio Players. Some members of the Zapp Band including Roger Troutman, Larry Troutman and Greg Jackson. He also has met members of the band Slave. In 1992 Eric placed 1st. in the Saga Continues National Talent Showcase in Dayton, Ohio. The contest was judged by Motown Recording Artist, The Boys, Khiry and Taj, Toni Johnson of Motown Records, Brian Castle of Atlantic Records and Turk Logan Station Manager for WCSU FM. This won him a trip to Hollywood, California to record a demo. It was there that he collaborated with Chuck Debow, Hayward Collins, Howie Hirsh and Allan Tatum at L.A.Q. studio, on a re-mix single that he performed during the contest. After much consideration and several contract offers, Eric decided to stay in his home town of Dayton, Ohio where he continues to work today with various talented artists.