Getting To Know Our Stars! 10 Questions for Eric Darius
1. How old were you when you first started playing sax?
I was 10 years old when I first started playing the saxophone. I grew up in a musical household and my parents exposed me to all styles of music at an early age, so I really started to develop an ear, love and passion for it ever since I was about 3 years old. I always enjoyed the sound of the sax every time my dad would play a David Sanborn or Grover Washington, Jr. record around the house, but I had never physically seen or heard anyone play the instrument in person until I was 9 years old one Sunday morning at church. I instantly fell in love with the saxophone and felt a deep emotional and spiritual connection to it – as if it was my calling! I told my parents that I wanted to play the sax after church that day and they bought one for me for my 10th birthday. I never looked back and that was the beginning of this beautiful journey!
2. Who was/is your biggest musical inspiration?
Musically, my biggest inspiration is David Sanborn. As a child, he was my hero, and I literally wanted to be just like him as a saxophonist. I had the opportunity to meet him at one of his shows while still in high school, and he became a good friend and mentor for over 20 years after that moment! Personally, my wife is my biggest inspiration as she truly brings the best out of me, supports my dreams, and loves me unconditionally. She is my “why” when it comes to my life’s purpose.
3. Where do you make your home?
I currently reside in Los Angeles and have been here for 14 years. Even though we only spend about 50 – 60 days a year at home since we are always on the road touring, there really is no place like your own home.
4. Do you have any pets?
I do not currently have any pets as unfortunately they both have passed on. I had a Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Miles, whom I named after Miles Davis. He was full of energy and never met a stranger! I also had a beautiful Calico cat named Roxy. I miss them both dearly.
5. What is the best concert/gig you have ever done?
There have been so many memorable concerts so far in my career, but if I had to choose one, it would probably be my first time performing at the iconic Hollywood Bowl at age 20 in front of a sold-out crowd of 17,000 people. That moment was truly unforgettable.
6. What is the best concert you have ever attended?
The best concert I attended was a Bruno Mars show at the Staples Center in Los Angeles in 2019. The energy, musicianship, lighting and choreography was truly electrifying!
7. Do you have an all-time favourite song or album?
This is a really tough question, but I would have to say that my all-time favorite album is a toss-up between Stevie Wonder’s “Songs in the Key of Life” and Miles Davis’ “Kind of Blue” album. If I had to choose one though, I’d probably go with Stevie. His timeless music has been so influential to me in every aspect, and I think this album is pure perfection from start to finish.
8. What musician would you still most like to work with?
There are many artists I would love to have the opportunity to perform and record with but the artists at the top of my list are Stevie Wonder, Bruno Mars, Anderson Paak. and Alicia Keys.
9. If you weren't a musician, what would you be?
In addition to being a musician, I was an athlete growing up as well. I always enjoyed playing basketball as it was my second love to music. Between the two though, I choose music, but I still incorporate my “AirDarius” signature jump during all my shows which is a homage to my second love of basketball.
10. What is your favourite thing about Vancouver?
I haven’t had the opportunity to visit Vancouver yet, but it is at the top of my list! I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about it from the picturesque scenery, vibrant culture, and friendly people. I can’t wait to experience it hopefully soon.
~Vickie van Dyke
Midday Host