Meet the “Pretty Good” Musician with a 5lb. Alarm Clock: Eric Hutchinson
by Kailee Baylor
With international hits and performances alongside artists like Kelly Clarkson and Jason Mraz under his belt, it’s safe to say that platinum-selling pop-rocker Eric Hutchinson is pretty good. That’s why we couldn’t help but ask him about his new album, who he’s dying to perform with and why he posts so many photos of his dog, Elmer, on Instagram (@EricHutchinson). Get to know him before his show March 5 in the Fowler Blast Furnace Room of the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks:
How would you describe your music to someone who has never heard it before?
Eric Hutchinson: A good time! I grew up loving The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel and Paul Simon, so my music is very rooted in classic songwriting.
You’ve performed with top musicians such as Kelly Clarkson, Jason Mraz, OneRepublic, O.A.R. and Pentatonix. Is there an artist or group that you’re hoping you’ll one day be able to add to that list?
Eric Hutchinson: I want to open for Billy Joel at his monthly Madison Square Garden show. If anyone out there knows Billy, please put in a good word for me.
Your latest album, Eric Hutchinson Is Pretty Good, is slated for an early 2016 release. What can you tell us about that album?
Eric Hutchinson: I’m really excited to share it! It’s my most soulful album yet and in many ways the independent recording process reminds me a lot of my first album, Sounds Like This. I produced the album myself for the first time and that was really thrilling to find I knew how to do that.
The album features the power ballad “Anyone Who Knows Me,” which you’ve called, “the song I’ve been trying to write my whole career.” What about that song makes it so special to you?
Eric Hutchinson: I tend to write upbeat songs you can dance to or clean the house while you listen. I have a hard time slowing the tempo down, but this was a song that I worked on for years to finally get it just right. It feels epic in a way that I always admire in other people’s songs. I’ve been singing it live every night and getting a crazy good response from the audience. It’s exciting.
There are quite a few photos of your dog Elmer on your Instagram page. Does he ever come on tour with you?
Eric Hutchinson: Yes! Elmer only weighs 5 pounds, so he can come anywhere with me. He sits under the seat on an airplane, or sleeps in my bunk with me on the tour bus. He’s great for morale, and gets me up early to take him for a walk in the morning.
You’re known for wearing sharp, often colorful suits on your album covers and on stage. Do you have a suit picked out yet to wear here in Bethlehem?
Eric Hutchinson: But of course! Just went shopping this week for the tour.
Anything else you’d like to add or share?
Eric Hutchinson: My show is great for fans and newbies alike. It’s high energy, fun, soulful and a great way to hang out and experience music. Hope to see you there!
