Algebra teacher Eric Walker, from Moore, Oklahoma, wrote Life is Beautiful and released it on Valentine’s Day. Life is Beautiful is meant to bring hope to those struggling with mental illnesses. Walker has performed 54 live shows, with 2 of those shows being in Texas.
Walker wrote Life is Beautiful in the fall of 2016 at his lowest point in life. It was written as a joke, but now has a feeling of ‘hope’ aligned with it. Walker struggled with mental health after receiving concussions, which five are related to baseball.
Walker Intends to Make a Difference
“I hope it makes a difference.”
Eric Walker
These concussions led him to giving his dream up on playing Major League Baseball, leaving him to pursue music. He classifies his music as red dirt, taking influences from both rock and country. “It doesn’t fit in either of those categories,” Walker says.
Walker said he needed to release Life is Beautiful now, hoping to send a message to those struggling with mental health. After losing a student to mental health, Walker knew he needed to release Life is Beautiful for others. “If you can’t properly love yourself, how can you love someone else,” Walker is referring to how his song is about loving life.
Walker Gives Advice
Walker wants aspiring artists to heed his words of wisdom. He encourages them to work and ensure the bills are paid, because creativity won’t be limited to just a source of income. “I am very lucky to have a full time job, and to be able to do music.”
Walker is an algebra teacher, being good at math. “It’s easier to compose a song knowing the math.” Math plays many roles in music, but the main role Walker uses it for is to compose his music.
“If you want your music to become a business, you have to treat it like one or nobody will take you seriously.”
Erik Walker
Walker has many words of wisdom for aspiring artists. “Write as many songs as you can,” Walker says to take those opportunities when they come along. Walker also commends social media by saying he has become seen.
Upcoming Projects After ‘Life is Beautiful’
Walker is currently collaborating with Justin Prime, another red dirt artist. He is also planning on two more releases including a tribute to Toby Keith. “I don’t feel right releasing it this next month,” Walker informs us that it will be released on March 8.
Walker plays live all over the Oklahoma area and will be playing live at the Silver Stallion in Mustang Oklahoma on February 15th. The Silver Stallion is a bar that host live shows, events, and karaoke.
Keep in touch about Oklahoma red dirt music via Respect My Region.
