- E. Babbs: The Rhythmic Journey
- From the resonant notes of a piano in grandma’s house to the thunderous beats onstage, the musical odyssey of Eric Barber—known professionally as E. Babbs—is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Born with a natural inclination toward drums, his journey began with a detour through the world of piano due to his grandma’s insistence. While he may admit to not mastering the piano, it was the rhythmic foundation that paved the way for his explosive drumming prowess.
- A rebellious kid, Barber found his sanctuary in punk bands, embracing the raw energy and rebellion of the genre. Turntables, drum machines and a Casio sampling keyboard soon followed, setting the stage for a fusion of electric sounds. With a pair of Pioneer PL514 turntables acquired from garage sales, Barber embarked on a mission inspired by the likes of Run-DMC’s Jam Master Jay, DJ Jazzy Jeff, KRS-One, Rakim and Public Enemy’s Chuck D.
- The turning point came in the form of MC Shy-D, whose lyrics resonated deeply with Barber during 8th grade. The introduction to local DJ Romeo and his masterful mixing skills was a revelation and sparked Barber’s desire to delve into the world of DJing. Under Romeo’s tutelage and guidance, Barber honed his skills on Technic 1200s as their lifelong mentorship bloomed.
- Barber’s talent extended beyond the turntables. From pounding the drums in various settings, including marching bands and jazz bands, to creating intricate cadences, his drumming prowess was undeniable. A “SAY NO TO DRUGS” rap contest at Southroads Mall in Bellevue, Nebraska provided an early platform for his multifaceted talents, securing him second place with a performance that included scratching, rapping, dancing and producing.
- The move to New York City became a pivotal chapter, connecting Barber with Hip-Hop legends such as Rob Base and the late DJ EZ Rock. The collaborative spirit thrived, resulting in more than 25 original albums and shared stages with the very legends who fueled his musical ambitions—from Rakim and Prince Po to Pharoahe Monch and Jadakiss. Despite the challenges and triumphs throughout his career, Barber proudly declares, “E. Babbs ain’t dead yet!” – a mantra that encapsulates his enduring passion for music and a testament to a life lived in the rhythm of his own beat.
The Culture Shock Tour, founded by Houston Alexander in 2003, is an educational initiative aimed at teaching the history and fundamentals of hip-hop culture through interactive music, dance, and art sessions. Targeting K-12 schools and colleges in the Omaha metropolitan area, the program collaborates with educators and volunteers to positively impact students and the community.
The tour offers virtual experiences, allowing participants to engage with hip-hop culture remotely. Upcoming events and news updates are regularly posted on the website, providing insights into the program’s activities and community involvement.
For those interested in booking a tour stop or learning more about the initiative, contact information is available on the website.