Welcome to the launch of Flatwood Shakes: Back Stage, your exclusive access to the music, stories, and creative process of Eric Blaine, the powerhouse behind Flatwood Shakes. If you’re a fan of raw, authentic alternative rock that speaks to the unbroken spirit, this blog is for you.

In this first post, we’ll dive into Eric’s journey—a story of resilience, transformation, and turning tragedy into meaningful art. As the creator of Flatwood Shakes, Eric isn’t just making music; he’s building an anthem for those who’ve faced life’s toughest challenges and come out stronger.

A Dream Interrupted

At the close of 2019, Eric was ready to step into the music scene, leading a band as its primary songwriter and vocalist. However, like for many of us, the pandemic changed everything. Struck by COVID and nearly losing his life, Eric watched his band plans dissolve and his family endure unimaginable trials. From his son’s battles with depression to the tragic loss of his daughter in 2021, the weight of these events could have crushed him.

Instead, Eric found his voice.

“I knew I had to channel all that pain into something meaningful,” he explains. Flatwood Shakes was born—not as a traditional band, but as a deeply personal solo project. “It’s for anyone who’s ever felt the weight of holding it all together when the world feels like it’s crumbling.”

Music for the Unbroken

Eric’s music captures resilience in its purest form. The songs of Flatwood Shakes explore themes of breaking free, rising from turmoil, and finding light in the darkness. With raw instrumentals and lyrics drawn from personal experiences, every track resonates with those who’ve endured life’s challenges.

“I want people to feel seen and uplifted,” Eric says. “Hope is the feeling I want listeners to walk away with—knowing life might knock you down, but you can still stand back up.”

A Raw and Real Sound

In an era where much of rock music feels overly polished, Flatwood Shakes offers something different. Eric’s songs embrace imperfection, focusing instead on capturing emotion. “This isn’t about radio-friendly beats or autotuned vocals. It’s about being real, messy, and unapologetically authentic.”

One standout moment from the album’s production came when Eric realized that striving for perfection wasn’t the goal. “I stopped overthinking a take and just let the emotion flow—that’s the version that made it onto the record.”

Looking Ahead

With the release of Flatwood Shakes’ debut single, “Free from the Fire,” on January 24, 2025, Eric is ready to share his journey with the world. The song embodies themes of breaking free from destructive relationships and finding strength in independence.

“My biggest goal is to connect with people,” Eric says. “I’m not chasing fame or chart-toppers. I’m chasing impact.”

Join the Movement

Flatwood Shakes is more than music—it’s a call to the resilient, to those who’ve stood tall through life’s storms. Pre-save “Free from the Fire” now and follow this blog for more insights into Eric’s creative process, his musical influences, and what’s next for Flatwood Shakes.

If this story resonates with you, share it with a friend who needs inspiration or loves a great rock narrative. Together, let’s celebrate the unbroken spirit that Eric’s music embodies.