presents in a totally original way. His songs make you want to groove and they move you in a special way. Give a listen.

Recently, Barrelhouse Blues ("BB") had the opportunity to ask Eddie about his background and music. Here is what the man had to say:

BB: How did you get your start in music and what attracted you to the Blues?

ET: Well I started because I wanted to play music that I liked. The blues was the "devils" music is what my grandmother told me. Needless to say that power of dark and light attracted me. It was and still is a driving force in my life. The music was everywhere, on the radio, on my record player. It was jazz, pop, rock ‘n’ roll and soul. But the blues - after many walks down dead-end streets - was the sound that I always heard and the electric guitar was the medium of choice.

BB: Was there a defining moment for you in your career in terms of your musical direction and development?

ET: When I learned the correct way to play Hoochie Coochie Man.

BB: Who are some of the performers that influenced your style?

ET: A few of the performers that I have emulated or still do are Miles Davis, Jimi Hendrix, Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf. Wolf used to just tear the roof off the North Chicago clubs I would sneak into! Jimmy Page is up there and how could even I forget Jeff Beck! Paul Butterfield was quite huge with Bloomfield. I saw them a lot in Chicago. Jimmy Smith… I could go on for days…

BB: We think your latest CD, “Turner Diaries,” on which you have written most of the songs, is very fresh and unique in its style and presentation. Is there an influence you can point to in terms of your inspiration?

ET: Thanks for the compliment. It's only "fresh " to your ears because you're so young! Again, all of my early influences come screaming through I think. From the rave up of Cost of Freedom to that junky country feel of Tore Down. I use to wear a hat and I still have the boots! Influences? The ones I mentioned earlier - did i say the Beatles and Pink Floyd?

BB: You spent many years as a sideman, most notably with Otis Taylor. How is it you evolved into leading your own band and embarking on a solo career?

ET: He had his manager ask me to leave. Should I say that? And I could not not continue to perform, so here I am.

BB: You received a 2006 Blues Music Award nomination for Best New Artist Debut for your CD Rise. How has this nomination impacted your career?

ET: I don't really know yet. It took me by surprise, a wonderful surprise that I am so grateful for. That so many people believed in the music, in what I had to say. I am so glad and at a loss for words.

BB: Are there any new CDs currently in the works?

ET: Oh yes! Now, which muse shall I follow this time? So many ideas. Thank god for Kenny Passarelli! He filters everything so that I have at least some direction!

BB: Are there any additional unfulfilled career goals that you would like to achieve at this point in time?

ET: Well, to tour Europe three months a year would be exceptional - I already get there twice a year, and to be played on "Bluesville" on XM Radio would be special.

BB: What do you value most about making music?

ET: The connection between those that listen and groove and me. Music makes me go into this spiritual world that I have to be a part of. I can't stand leaving it. So when I play and people respond it's just a perfect circular experience.

BB: What would you most like your fans to know about you and your music?

ET: That I am here and it is for all of us!