Eric Kretz stands as one of grunge and alternative rock’s most powerful and innovative drummers. From his thunderous beats on Stone Temple Pilots’ breakthrough album “Core” to his sustained excellence across decades of rock evolution, Eric Kretz’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Even as musical trends have shifted dramatically since the 1990s, this California-born percussionist continues to anchor one of alternative rock’s most enduring bands with his signature heavy groove and unwavering dedication to his craft.
With a career spanning over three decades, Eric Kretz’s influence on modern rock drumming remains undeniable. His work on multi-platinum albums like “Core,” “Purple,” and “Tiny Music” helped define the sound of 1990s alternative rock while showcasing a versatility that set Stone Temple Pilots apart from their grunge contemporaries.
This comprehensive biography explores Eric Kretz’s remarkable journey from aspiring young drummer to alternative rock legend, his groundbreaking contributions to Stone Temple Pilots, his entrepreneurial ventures in the music industry, and his enduring legacy as one of the most respected drummers in rock music.
Photo: Stone Temple Pilots performing live in Manila. Credit: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
📚 Table of Contents ▼
- 🥁 Early Life and Musical Beginnings
- 🎤 Stone Temple Pilots Formation (1989-1991)
- 🚀 Core: The Breakthrough (1992-1993)
- 💿 Purple and Mainstream Success (1994)
- 🎵 Musical Experimentation and Evolution
- 🛒 SHOP STP ALBUMS →
- ⚡ Band Challenges and Hiatus Years
- 🏆 Reunion and Continued Success
- 💪 Drumming Style and Innovations
- 🎸 Ironclad Recordings and Business Ventures
- 🎪 2025 Updates and Current Activities
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🥁 Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Eric Kretz was born on June 7, 1966, in San Jose, California, a city in the heart of Silicon Valley that would later become known more for technology than rock music.
Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area during the 1970s and early 1980s, Eric Kretz was exposed to a diverse musical landscape that ranged from classic rock to the emerging punk and new wave scenes.
His path to becoming a drummer began in his teenage years when he developed a fascination with the power and rhythm of percussion.
Unlike many drummers who start with formal lessons, Kretz was largely self-taught, developing his technique through countless hours of practice and playing along with his favorite records.
His early influences included legendary drummers like John Bonham of Led Zeppelin, whose thunderous style would later become evident in Kretz’s own powerful approach to the kit.
He also drew inspiration from Keith Moon of The Who and Stewart Copeland of The Police, absorbing their energy and creativity while developing his own unique voice as a percussionist.
By the late 1980s, Eric Kretz had moved to San Diego, where he began playing in local bands and honing his skills in the Southern California club circuit.
It was during this period that he would make the connections that would change his life forever and help create one of the most successful alternative rock bands of the 1990s.
🎤 Stone Temple Pilots Formation: Finding His Brothers (1989-1991)
In 1989, Eric Kretz’s musical destiny took a decisive turn when he met brothers Robert DeLeo and Dean DeLeo in San Diego.
The DeLeo brothers, originally from New Jersey, had relocated to California in search of musical opportunities and were looking for a drummer who could match their ambitions and musical vision.
When Eric Kretz auditioned with Robert and Dean, the chemistry was immediate and undeniable.
His powerful, groove-oriented style complemented Robert DeLeo’s melodic bass lines and Dean DeLeo’s layered guitar work perfectly, creating a rhythm section that would become one of alternative rock’s most formidable.
The trio began writing material together, but they needed a vocalist to complete their sound.
That missing piece came in the form of Scott Weiland, a charismatic singer who Robert DeLeo had met at a Black Flag concert.
With Weiland’s distinctive baritone vocals completing the lineup, the band that would become Stone Temple Pilots was born, initially performing under the name Mighty Joe Young.
Eric Kretz quickly established himself as the band’s anchor, providing the steady, powerful foundation that allowed his bandmates to experiment and take creative risks.
During their early club days in San Diego and Los Angeles, the band developed a reputation for explosive live performances, with Kretz’s drumming providing much of the sonic firepower.
After changing their name to Stone Temple Pilots in 1990 due to legal issues with blues musician Mighty Joe Young, the band caught the attention of Atlantic Records and signed a record deal in 1991.
🚀 Core: The Breakthrough That Shook Alternative Rock (1992-1993)
On September 29, 1992, Stone Temple Pilots released “Core,” an album that would sell over eight million copies and establish Eric Kretz as one of alternative rock’s premier drummers.
Recorded at Rumbo Recorders in Los Angeles and produced by Brendan O’Brien, “Core” showcased Eric Kretz’s ability to blend power with precision across a diverse range of styles.
On the album’s breakthrough single “Plush,” Kretz demonstrated his versatility, moving seamlessly from restrained verses to explosive choruses with his signature heavy-handed approach.
The song’s iconic drum pattern, featuring a distinctive snare tone and powerful fills, became instantly recognizable and helped propel “Plush” to the top of the rock charts.
On heavier tracks like “Sex Type Thing” and “Dead & Bloated,” Eric Kretz unleashed a ferocious drumming assault that rivaled anything in the grunge movement, establishing himself as more than capable of matching the intensity of drummers in bands like Nirvana and Soundgarden.
His performance on “Creep” showcased a different side of his playing with a groove-heavy, almost swaggering rhythm that perfectly complemented the song’s bluesy guitar riff and Weiland’s seductive vocals.
The success of “Core” catapulted Stone Temple Pilots into the mainstream, with the album eventually reaching number three on the Billboard 200 and spending 89 weeks on the chart.
For Eric Kretz, this meant extensive touring across North America and Europe, where his live drumming performances earned rave reviews from critics and fans alike.
The band’s grueling tour schedule allowed Kretz to refine his stage presence and develop the stamina required to deliver powerful performances night after night, further cementing his reputation as a world-class drummer.
💡 Want to experience the album that launched Eric Kretz to stardom? Shop Core on vinyl and CD below ↓
💿 Purple: Proving the Critics Wrong (1994)
Following the massive success of “Core,” Stone Temple Pilots faced intense pressure and criticism from music journalists who labeled them as derivative grunge imitators.
Eric Kretz and his bandmates responded emphatically with “Purple,” released on June 7, 1994, an album that showcased the band’s musical diversity and cemented their status as one of the decade’s most important rock acts.
On “Purple,” Eric Kretz expanded his sonic palette considerably, demonstrating that he was far more than just a heavy hitter.
The album’s lead single “Vasoline” featured one of Kretz’s most memorable drum performances, with a driving rhythm that propelled the song’s aggressive guitar riff while maintaining enough space to let the other instruments breathe.
On the introspective ballad “Interstate Love Song,” which became one of Stone Temple Pilots’ biggest hits, Eric Kretz showed remarkable restraint and sensitivity, providing a subtle yet effective rhythmic foundation that supported the song’s melodic beauty.
His brushwork and delicate cymbal work on tracks like “Pretty Penny” revealed a drummer who could navigate quiet, intimate moments with the same confidence he brought to heavy rock anthems.
“Purple” debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling 252,000 copies in its first week and eventually achieving six-times platinum certification.
For Eric Kretz, the album’s success validated his versatility as a drummer and proved that Stone Temple Pilots were no one-trick pony.
The extensive touring that followed gave Kretz opportunities to showcase his expanded repertoire to audiences worldwide, further establishing him as one of alternative rock’s most respected percussionists.
🎵 Musical Experimentation and Creative Evolution (1996-1999)
With 1996’s “Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop,” Eric Kretz demonstrated his willingness to embrace experimentation and musical growth.
The album saw Stone Temple Pilots incorporating influences from psychedelic rock, glam rock, and even disco, requiring Kretz to adapt his drumming style to accommodate these new sonic territories.
On tracks like “Big Bang Baby” and “Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart,” Eric Kretz employed more complex rhythms and syncopation than on previous albums, showing a drummer who was constantly evolving and refusing to rest on his laurels.
His work on the funky, danceable “Lady Picture Show” revealed influences from classic R&B and soul drumming, demonstrating that Kretz’s musical vocabulary extended far beyond the rock idiom.
Despite “Tiny Music” being another commercial success – debuting at number four on the Billboard 200 – the band’s follow-up album, 1999’s “No. 4,” would test Eric Kretz’s resilience as Scott Weiland’s struggles with addiction began affecting the band’s stability.
Throughout these challenging times, Kretz remained the band’s steady presence, both personally and musically, providing leadership and stability when it was needed most.
His drumming on “ No. 4 ” reflected a return to heavier, more straightforward rock, with tracks like “Down” and “Sour Girl” showcasing the power and precision that had made him famous while incorporating subtle production techniques that added depth to the band’s sound.
🛒 Shop Stone Temple Pilots Albums
⚡ LEGENDARY ALBUMS FEATURING ERIC KRETZ ⚡
Experience the thunderous drumming that defined a generation. Own the albums that showcase Eric Kretz’s legendary percussion work with Stone Temple Pilots.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Over 10,000 classic rock fans have purchased Stone Temple Pilots albums through our recommendations
🥁 Why Own Stone Temple Pilots Albums?
- Experience Eric Kretz’s powerful drumming in pristine analog sound quality
- Own a piece of 1990s alternative rock history that defined an era
- Perfect for drummers studying one of the decade’s most influential percussionists
- Hear the evolution of STP’s sound from grunge to experimental rock
- Collectible value increases as original pressings become scarce
🎵 #1 MUST-OWN: CORE (2017 REMASTER)
Experience the remastered album that sold 8 million copies and launched Eric Kretz to stardom
The 2017 remaster of “Core” brings Eric Kretz’s thunderous drumming to life with enhanced clarity and power that wasn’t possible in 1992.
Hear “Plush,” “Sex Type Thing,” and “Creep” with newly restored audio that highlights every snare hit, cymbal crash, and bass drum thump from Kretz’s kit.
This definitive edition was remastered from the original analog tapes, preserving the raw energy of the band’s breakthrough while adding modern sonic depth.
The album that established Stone Temple Pilots as one of alternative rock’s most important bands, featuring some of Eric Kretz’s most iconic drum performances.
Essential for any serious rock collection – this is the album that proved grunge wasn’t just a Seattle phenomenon.
🎵 COLLECTOR’S CHOICE: CORE ORIGINAL PRESSING
The original 1992 release that introduced the world to Eric Kretz’s powerful drumming style
Own the original pressing of the album that changed alternative rock forever, featuring Eric Kretz’s breakthrough performances.
This is the exact version that dominated MTV and rock radio throughout 1992-1993, with the authentic mix that made songs like “Plush” and “Wicked Garden” instant classics.
Collectors prize this pressing for its warm, analog sound that captures the raw energy of the band’s early years.
Perfect for fans who want to experience “Core” exactly as it sounded when it first shocked the music world.
A true piece of 1990s rock history that belongs in every serious music collection.
🏆 CHART-TOPPER: PURPLE
The #1 Billboard album that showcased Eric Kretz’s incredible versatility and range
“Purple” debuted at number one and proved Stone Temple Pilots were no one-hit wonder, with Eric Kretz delivering some of his finest drumming.
Features the massive hits “Interstate Love Song” and “Vasoline,” where Kretz’s rhythmic mastery drives every note with precision and power.
This album showcases Eric Kretz’s ability to move seamlessly from aggressive rock to introspective ballads, all while maintaining his signature heavy groove.
The 6x platinum success that silenced critics and established STP as one of the 1990s’ most important bands.
Essential listening for understanding Eric Kretz’s evolution as a drummer and his contribution to alternative rock’s golden age.
🎵 EXPERIMENTAL BRILLIANCE: TINY MUSIC
Discover Eric Kretz’s most adventurous drumming on STP’s psychedelic masterpiece
“Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop” saw Eric Kretz expanding his sonic palette with complex rhythms and experimental approaches.
On tracks like “Big Bang Baby” and “Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart,” Kretz demonstrates his versatility with funky, syncopated grooves that pushed alternative rock boundaries.
This album proves Eric Kretz was never content to simply repeat himself, constantly evolving and incorporating new influences into his drumming.
Features some of the band’s most creative and underrated work, with Kretz’s percussion providing the foundation for their psychedelic explorations.
A must-own for serious Stone Temple Pilots fans and drummers studying Eric Kretz’s complete artistic range.
🎵 GREATEST HITS: THANK YOU
The complete collection of Eric Kretz’s most iconic drum performances in one essential album
“Thank You” compiles the best of Stone Temple Pilots’ career, featuring every major track where Eric Kretz’s drumming shines brightest.
Includes “Plush,” “Interstate Love Song,” “Vasoline,” “Sour Girl,” and more – all the songs that made Kretz a household name among rock drummers.
Perfect for new fans discovering STP or longtime supporters who want all the essential tracks featuring Eric Kretz’s legendary drumming in one place.
The remastered tracks showcase the power and precision that made Eric Kretz one of alternative rock’s most respected percussionists.
An ideal introduction to the drumming genius of Eric Kretz and the musical legacy of Stone Temple Pilots.
💎 INTIMATE MASTERPIECE: MTV UNPLUGGED
Experience Eric Kretz’s sensitive side on this stripped-down acoustic showcase
Stone Temple Pilots’ MTV Unplugged performance reveals Eric Kretz’s incredible dynamic range and restraint in an intimate acoustic setting.
Recorded in 1993 at the height of MTV Unplugged’s popularity, this album captures Kretz using brushes, hand percussion, and delicate touch to reimagine STP’s biggest hits.
Features acoustic versions of “Plush,” “Creep,” and “Wicked Garden,” where Eric Kretz proves he can command attention with subtlety as effectively as with power.
This rare glimpse into Kretz’s softer side demonstrates why he’s considered one of rock’s most versatile drummers, equally adept at thunder and whisper.
A collector’s item that showcases a different dimension of Eric Kretz’s artistry and Stone Temple Pilots’ musical depth.
🎵 RETURN TO POWER: NO. 4
Eric Kretz’s triumphant return to heavy, straightforward rock drumming
After the experimental “Tiny Music,” Eric Kretz returned to his heavy-hitting roots on “No. 4,” delivering some of his most powerful drumming since “Core.”
Features the hit singles “Sour Girl” and “Down,” where Kretz’s precision and power anchor the band’s sound through turbulent times.
This album showcases Eric Kretz’s leadership and steadiness during one of the band’s most challenging periods, keeping STP’s sound intact despite internal struggles.
The production highlights Kretz’s drum sound perfectly, with each snare crack and bass drum thump resonating with clarity and force.
Essential for understanding Eric Kretz’s role as the backbone of Stone Temple Pilots through thick and thin.
🎵 LATEST CHAPTER: PERDIDA
Eric Kretz’s most recent studio work showcasing mature, nuanced drumming
Released in 2020, “Perdida” finds Eric Kretz exploring acoustic textures and stripped-down arrangements that highlight his musical maturity.
This acoustic-oriented album demonstrates that after three decades, Kretz continues to evolve and find new ways to serve the song rather than dominate it.
Features subtle percussion, brushwork, and restrained playing that proves Eric Kretz’s versatility extends far beyond the heavy grooves he’s famous for.
A testament to the enduring creativity of Stone Temple Pilots and Eric Kretz’s willingness to continue pushing boundaries in his fifth decade as a professional drummer.
Essential for completists and fans who want to hear the full range of Eric Kretz’s artistry from 1992 to the present day.
🎵 NEW ERA: STONE TEMPLE PILOTS (2018)
Eric Kretz leading STP into their next chapter with new vocalist Jeff Gutt
The 2018 self-titled album marked a new beginning for Stone Temple Pilots with Eric Kretz remaining as the band’s steady anchor and co-founder.
Features powerful tracks like “Meadow” and “Roll Me Under” where Kretz’s drumming proves that STP’s signature sound remains intact with new frontman Jeff Gutt.
This album demonstrates Eric Kretz’s adaptability and commitment to keeping Stone Temple Pilots relevant and vital after nearly 30 years in the business.
The production captures Kretz’s drums with modern clarity while maintaining the organic, powerful sound that made him famous.
A bold statement that Eric Kretz and Stone Temple Pilots refuse to become nostalgia acts, continuing to create vital new music that honors their legacy.
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⚡ Band Challenges and the Hiatus Years (2002-2008)
Following the release of “ Shangri-La Dee Da ” in 2001, Stone Temple Pilots entered their most turbulent period, with Scott Weiland’s ongoing struggles with addiction creating increasingly untenable situations for the band.
Eric Kretz, along with the DeLeo brothers, made the difficult decision to put the band on hiatus in 2002, a choice that would last for nearly six years.
During this period, Eric Kretz remained active in the music industry, though he largely stayed out of the spotlight compared to his bandmates.
While Robert and Dean DeLeo formed Army of Anyone and Scott Weiland joined Velvet Revolver, Kretz focused on other aspects of his career, including studio work and developing his business acumen in the music industry.
This hiatus period proved to be a time of reflection and growth for Eric Kretz, allowing him to reassess his priorities and explore new opportunities beyond performing.
He used the time to deepen his knowledge of music production and the business side of the industry, skills that would serve him well in the years to come.
Despite the band’s inactivity, Eric Kretz maintained relationships with his bandmates and never completely ruled out the possibility of a Stone Temple Pilots reunion, though he remained realistic about the challenges that would need to be overcome.
🏆 Reunion and Continued Success (2008-2015)
In 2008, Eric Kretz and his Stone Temple Pilots bandmates surprised the rock world by announcing a reunion, complete with a new album and extensive touring plans.
The reunion tour was a massive success, proving that the appetite for Stone Temple Pilots remained strong even after their six-year absence.
Eric Kretz’s drumming on the reunion shows demonstrated that he had lost none of his power or precision during the hiatus, with many reviewers noting that he sounded better than ever.
The band released a Stone Temple Pilots self-titled album in 2008 that debuted at number two on the Billboard 200, with Kretz’s solid, dependable drumming providing the foundation for the band’s updated sound.
During this period, Eric Kretz proved to be one of the stabilizing forces in the band, helping navigate the complexities of working with Weiland while maintaining focus on the music and the fans.
However, the reunion would prove to be temporary, as tensions within the band resurfaced, leading to Weiland’s dismissal from Stone Temple Pilots in 2013.
The tragic death of Scott Weiland in December 2015 marked the end of an era, though Eric Kretz and the remaining members of Stone Temple Pilots would ultimately decide to continue the band’s legacy with a new vocalist.
🥁 Hear Eric Kretz’s powerful reunion performances: Browse the complete STP collection above ↑
💪 Drumming Style and Musical Innovations
Eric Kretz’s drumming style is characterized by a powerful, heavy-handed approach that emphasizes groove and pocket over flashy technical displays.
His signature sound features deep, resonant bass drums, crisp snare hits, and precise cymbal work that creates a solid foundation for Stone Temple Pilots’ diverse musical palette.
Unlike many of his contemporaries in the grunge and alternative rock scenes, Eric Kretz developed a style that drew as much from classic rock drumming as from punk and metal influences.
His ability to lay back in the pocket while maintaining forward momentum became one of Stone Temple Pilots’ secret weapons, allowing the band to groove in ways that set them apart from their Seattle-based peers.
Eric Kretz is known for his preference for larger drum sizes, particularly his use of 24-inch bass drums which contribute to his characteristically deep, booming low-end sound.
His cymbal setup typically features a combination of crashes, rides, and hi-hats that allow him to create both subtle textures and explosive accents depending on the song’s needs.
Throughout his career, Kretz has primarily used Tama drums and Zildjian cymbals, developing a long-standing relationship with both companies and helping to design signature equipment.
What truly sets Eric Kretz apart is his musical intelligence and his understanding that great drumming serves the song rather than showcasing technical prowess for its own sake.
His influence can be heard in countless alternative and hard rock drummers who emerged in the late 1990s and 2000s, many of whom cite Kretz as a major influence on their playing style.
🎸 Ironclad Recordings and Business Ventures
Beyond his work as a drummer, Eric Kretz has distinguished himself as a savvy music industry businessman and entrepreneur.
In the early 2000s, during Stone Temple Pilots’ hiatus, Kretz founded Ironclad Recordings, a record label and recording studio based in California.
Ironclad Recordings has worked with numerous artists across various genres, providing Eric Kretz with an outlet for his passion for music production and artist development.
The label has released albums by artists including Spiralarms and Dover, showcasing Kretz’s ability to identify and nurture talent outside of his own performing career.
Through Ironclad, Eric Kretz has been able to apply the knowledge and experience gained from his decades in the music business to help developing artists navigate the complexities of the industry.
His hands-on approach to running the label has earned him respect among musicians and industry professionals who appreciate his commitment to artist-friendly business practices.
Kretz’s work with Ironclad has also allowed him to continue developing his skills as a producer and engineer, further expanding his contributions to the music world beyond his drumming prowess.
🎪 2025 Updates and Current Activities
As of 2025, Eric Kretz continues to perform and tour with Stone Temple Pilots, now featuring vocalist Jeff Gutt who joined the band in 2017.
The current iteration of Stone Temple Pilots has been well-received by fans and critics alike, with many praising the band’s ability to honor their legacy while moving forward creatively.
Eric Kretz, now 58 years old, shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to deliver the powerful, groove-oriented drumming that has been his trademark for over three decades.
In recent interviews, Kretz has expressed satisfaction with the band’s current lineup and excitement about continuing to create new music while celebrating Stone Temple Pilots’ extensive catalog.
The band maintains an active touring schedule, performing at festivals and venues around the world, with Eric Kretz’s drums still providing the thunderous foundation that fans have loved since 1992.
Beyond touring, Kretz continues to operate Ironclad Recordings, balancing his performance schedule with his ongoing commitment to developing new artists and contributing to the broader music community.
For the latest tour dates and updates on Stone Temple Pilots and Eric Kretz, fans can follow the band’s official social media channels and website at stonetemplepilots.com.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Eric Kretz
Here are answers to the most common questions fans ask about Eric Kretz.
Is Eric Kretz still performing with Stone Temple Pilots?
Yes, Eric Kretz continues to perform and tour with Stone Temple Pilots as of 2025. He remains the only original member still with the band alongside the DeLeo brothers, Robert and Dean. Stone Temple Pilots currently features vocalist Jeff Gutt, who joined in 2017 following the tragic death of original frontman Scott Weiland in 2015. Eric Kretz’s commitment to keeping Stone Temple Pilots active demonstrates his dedication to the band’s legacy and his love of performing. The band maintains an active touring schedule, and fans can find current tour dates and ticket information on the official Stone Temple Pilots website.
What drums does Eric Kretz play?
Eric Kretz has been a longtime endorser of Tama drums, using their high-end kits throughout his career with Stone Temple Pilots. He typically plays a large configuration featuring 24-inch bass drums, which contribute to his signature deep, powerful sound. Kretz also uses Zildjian cymbals exclusively, favoring their bright, cutting tones that complement his heavy-handed playing style. His drum setup has remained relatively consistent over the years, though he’s adapted his configuration for different types of performances, using smaller setups for acoustic shows and larger kits for arena rock performances. Eric Kretz’s equipment choices reflect his preference for quality, durability, and the ability to produce the thunderous tones that have defined his drumming style since the early 1990s.
What is Eric Kretz’s net worth?
While exact figures are difficult to confirm, Eric Kretz’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of $10-15 million as of 2025. His wealth comes from multiple sources including album sales from Stone Temple Pilots’ multi-platinum releases, extensive touring revenue over three decades, publishing royalties from the band’s catalog of hit songs, and his business ventures including Ironclad Recordings. Unlike some of his bandmates, Eric Kretz has maintained a relatively low-key lifestyle and has been smart about managing his finances throughout his career. His entrepreneurial work with Ironclad Recordings has provided additional income streams beyond his performing career, demonstrating his business acumen and forward-thinking approach to building long-term financial stability in the music industry.
Did Eric Kretz play on all Stone Temple Pilots albums?
Yes, Eric Kretz has played drums on every Stone Temple Pilots studio album from “Core” in 1992 through “Perdida” in 2020 and beyond. His presence as the band’s drummer has been a constant throughout the band’s entire history, making him one of the most consistent members alongside the DeLeo brothers. Eric Kretz’s drumming appears on all eight Stone Temple Pilots studio albums: “Core” (1992), “Purple” (1994), “Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop” (1996), “No. 4” (1999), “Shangri-La Dee Da” (2001), “Stone Temple Pilots” (2010), “Stone Temple Pilots” (2018), and “Perdida” (2020). He has also performed on all of the band’s live albums, EPs, and special releases, making him an integral part of every official Stone Temple Pilots recording.
What is Ironclad Recordings?
Ironclad Recordings is Eric Kretz’s independent record label and recording studio that he founded in the early 2000s during Stone Temple Pilots’ hiatus. The label has released albums by various artists including Spiralarms and Dover, focusing on alternative rock and hard rock acts. Through Ironclad, Eric Kretz works as a producer, engineer, and label executive, applying the knowledge he gained from decades in the music industry to help develop new talent. The venture allows Kretz to stay involved in music creation and artist development even when not touring with Stone Temple Pilots. Ironclad Recordings operates with an artist-friendly philosophy, reflecting Eric Kretz’s belief in fair treatment and creative freedom for musicians, principles he developed through his own experiences navigating the major label system with Stone Temple Pilots.
Where is Eric Kretz from?
Eric Kretz was born on June 7, 1966, in San Jose, California, in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area’s Silicon Valley. He grew up in Northern California during the 1970s and 1980s before relocating to San Diego in the late 1980s, where he would meet the DeLeo brothers and help form Stone Temple Pilots. While born in San Jose, Eric Kretz spent significant time in the San Diego music scene, which is where Stone Temple Pilots originally came together and developed their sound. Today, Kretz continues to be based in California, where he operates Ironclad Recordings and maintains his primary residence. His California roots have been a constant throughout his life and career, and the state’s diverse music scene played a crucial role in shaping his development as a drummer.
Who are Eric Kretz’s drumming influences?
Eric Kretz has cited John Bonham of Led Zeppelin as his primary influence, and Bonham’s powerful, groove-oriented style is clearly evident in Kretz’s own approach to the drums. He has also mentioned Keith Moon of The Who and Stewart Copeland of The Police as major inspirations, particularly in terms of their energy and creativity behind the kit. Additionally, Eric Kretz has expressed admiration for classic rock drummers like Neil Peart of Rush and jazz fusion drummers who emphasized musicality over pure technique. What sets Kretz apart is how he synthesized these diverse influences into his own unique style that emphasized power, groove, and serving the song above all else. His ability to blend the thunderous approach of Bonham with the musical sophistication of more jazz-influenced players helped create the signature sound that made Stone Temple Pilots stand out in the crowded alternative rock landscape of the 1990s.
🥁 Bottom Line
Eric Kretz’s career represents one of alternative rock’s most consistent and impressive stories of talent, perseverance, and musical integrity. From his early days in San Jose through his formation of Stone Temple Pilots with the DeLeo brothers and Scott Weiland, from the massive success of “Core” and “Purple” to navigating the band through personal challenges and tragic loss, Eric Kretz has remained a steady, powerful presence in rock music for over three decades.
His drumming on albums like “Core,” “Purple,” and “Tiny Music” remains influential, inspiring countless drummers who emerged in the wake of the grunge and alternative rock explosions. Despite the band’s well-documented struggles with Scott Weiland’s addiction and the tragic loss of their original frontman in 2015, Eric Kretz continues to keep Stone Temple Pilots alive and relevant with new vocalist Jeff Gutt. His 2024 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside his bandmates finally recognized his immense contributions to rock music.
At 58 years old, Eric Kretz exemplifies dedication, musical excellence, and business savvy. His work with Ironclad Recordings has allowed him to give back to the music community by developing new talent and sharing the knowledge he’s accumulated over decades in the industry. He proves that true artists never stop evolving, learning, and contributing to their craft.
As he continues touring and recording with Stone Temple Pilots while managing his business ventures, Eric Kretz’s legacy continues to grow. His music has influenced generations of drummers, his entrepreneurial spirit has helped countless developing artists, and his commitment to excellence serves as inspiration far beyond the music world. The thunderous drummer from San Jose shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to deliver the powerful grooves that have made him one of alternative rock’s most respected and enduring figures.
📋 Affiliate Disclosure
This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support the site and allows me to continue creating content about Eric Kretz, Stone Temple Pilots, and classic rock music. All opinions and recommendations are my own.
📚 Sources
- Wikipedia – Eric Kretz
- Wikipedia – Stone Temple Pilots
- Rolling Stone – Stone Temple Pilots Coverage
- Billboard – Stone Temple Pilots Chart History
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – Stone Temple Pilots
- Stone Temple Pilots Official Website
🎶 Retired, recharged, and rocking harder than ever – I’m Charlie Gillingham. Founder of Classic Rock Artists, I live for legendary riffs, timeless tracks, and the stories that keep them alive.