Watch: Eric Burton’s Journey from Busking to Black Pumas

10.29.24

Eric Burton’s rise from busking on the Santa Monica pier to Grammy-nominated stardom is the kind of story that fascinates fans and brands alike. Starting with his guitar, raw talent, and magnetic charisma, Eric spent his early days captivating crowds in California while perfecting his performance. After venturing through the Western states, he found himself in Austin, Texas in 2017, where he strategically set up shop on the busy corner of 6th Street and Congress, maximizing the reach of his undeniable talent and contagious energy.

Today, Eric is the co-founder of Black Pumas, a band that’s taken the world by storm. Their self-titled debut album earned global acclaim, blending psychedelic soul with a modern edge, and their breakout single “Colors” has surpassed 750 million streams. Black Pumas has transcended to international headliners, selling out tours across North and South America, Europe, and beyond. Their music has also made waves in film, TV, and advertising, further expanding their reach.

At the Forbes CMO Summit, Eric shared a story that many marketers dream of—how he, like so many musicians, has cultivated something brands deeply crave: a global, highly-engaged and deeply loyal fanbase. His journey is a testament to the power of authentic connection, both online and off. Now, with their sophomore album Chronicles of a Diamond and the Grammy-nominated single “More Than a Love Song,” Black Pumas continue to push creative boundaries as they embark on a global tour.

Watch a few key takeaways from his conversation below. He discusses his incredible rise, maintaining a mindset of abundance and teaming up with one of his idols at Ohana Festival.