New Artist Spotlight: Eddie Bush
By Gary Voorhies
Eddie Bush was introduced to the guitar at age 4 in his hometown of Charleston, S.C.
By 12, he had discovered Jimi Hendrix, Kiss and Eddie Van Halen. He formed his first band before entering junior high school and was playing club dates by the time he was 16.
"Once I decided that music would be my career," Bush said, "I was completely dedicated to becoming a great guitar player."
Guitar great Eric Johnson became a major influence.
"I saw Eric play and was absolutely blown away," he said.
A friendship grew between the two and before long, Johnson had invited Bush to open a series of shows. "With Eric's guidance, I started paying attention to my singing and the fact that I'd developed into a serious songwriter - things I'd been taking completely for granted," he recalled.
In 2001, Bush wrote "Spirit of America," an anthem about the September 11th terrorist attacks. The song got widespread airplay and motivated Bush to write a second tribute song, "The Thin Blue Line," which pays homage to police officers.
Bush's self-titled debut album presents 13 songs, 11 of which he co-wrote, which demonstrate the Country, classic rock and pop influences of his childhood.
Released by Tone-Box Records in March, Eddie Bush, produced by Jason Bradford, Phil Symonds and Brent Lamb, includes the single "Hard To Stop A Train," written by Craig Wiseman.
IN HIS OWN WORDS:
Who is your musical hero?
"Prince."
What book is on your nightstand right now?
"The Dark Tower, Book 7 by Stephen King."
What do you sing in the shower?
Travis Tritt, Phil Vassar and Journey songs."
What is your pet peeve?
"Holding the door for someone who doesn't appreciate it."
What actor would portray you in a biopic about your life?
"Viggo Mortensen."
What moment in your life would you relive if you could?
"My wedding day."
What song do you wish you had written?
"'Witchita Lineman' performed by Glen Campbell and written by Jimmy Webb or anything by the Beatles."
What word or phrase do you find yourself saying over and over again?
"C'mon over driver."
Do you have a lucky charm?
"My wedding ring and my crucifix."
Which mode of transportation do you prefer - planes, trains or automobiles?
"Autos locally, otherwise bring on the jet."
Who is your dream duet partner?
"Bonnie Raitt."
If you wrote an autobiography, what would the title be?
"The Man Who Never Gave Up."
When they look back on your life in 50 years, what do you hope people say about you?
"I hope that they recognize that I am a nice, genuine person who loves his wife."
On the Web: www.eddiebush.com
© 2005 Country Music Association, Inc.
December 6, 2005
© David Bailey
