We had the good fortune of connecting with Eric Bumb and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Eric, career-wise, where do you want to be in the end?
I don’t have a set end goal in my career. It’s all about Faith and embracing the unknown journey. Whether I’m playing drums for another decade or it all ends tomorrow, I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been a professional musician for over 10 years. Like Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “It’s not the Destination, It’s the journey.”
Instead of fixating on a specific endpoint, I focus on continually honing my skills and making a positive impact on those I meet in the industry. It’s part of my call to use my talent wisely and spread positivity. So, while I don’t have a clear final destination, I hope to look back on my career with pride, knowing I’ve brightened the path for others along the way.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to grow up in a household that values music and creativity. When I first started experimenting with drums at 13, I was lucky to have parents who could afford lessons for me. As my skills developed, I pursued further education in music at college. From there, I dove into various bands and began networking within the industry.
Reflecting on my journey, one of the most challenging aspects has been personal growth and adaptability. In any industry, there’s no shortage of talented individuals, but what’s often lacking are those who combine skill with integrity, compassion, and positivity. Over the past decade, I’ve encountered the test of maintaining a humble and positive demeanor, especially amidst the rigors of relentless travel schedules. These lessons started early for me, as I embarked on my first cross-country tour at just 17.
Today, I’m proud of the person I’ve become, both within my industry and among my friends and family. While the path hasn’t always been easy, it’s taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, humility, and the importance of staying true to myself. As I continue to grow professionally, I hope to embody these values and serve as a positive influence in both my industry and the world at large.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
During my friend’s week-long visit to Huntington Beach, we’d dive headfirst into the local experience. Days would start with lazy mornings by the beach, followed by indulgent bites at TK Burger. Afternoons would be alive with the sound of live music, from jazz vibes in Laguna Beach to country tunes at The Old Crow. We’d venture into nature, exploring nearby trails and taking in the diverse ecosystems just a short trip away, whether it’s the mountains of Big Bear or the desert landscapes of Joshua Tree. Cultural immersion would be on the agenda too, with evenings spent enjoying performances at the Segerstrom Performing Arts Center or browsing local galleries. And of course, we’d make time for culinary adventures, sampling the best of Huntington’s food scene. As the sun sets on our final day, we’d take a reflective walk along the shore, grateful for the unforgettable memories made in this vibrant coastal paradise.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give a shoutout to God first and foremost. Without His guidance and blessings, none of my accomplishments would be possible. He’s provided me with incredible people who’ve been my pillars of support here on Earth.
My parents deserve a huge thank you for their unwavering support. They not only invested financially in my music education and college journey but also dedicated countless hours to nurturing my passion, from enduring loud drum practices to attending late-night shows. Their willingness to let me pursue a risky career choice speaks volumes about their love and support.
I also want to express my gratitude to my best friend, Ashley Chavarria. She’s been a constant source of support and inspiration, showing me what it means to shine brightly in the world of the arts. Her friendship has been invaluable on this journey.
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