Singer takes 'artistic sabbatical' in the Flathead

Pop has a new voice in town.

Singer and songwriter Eric Michael Krop came to the Flathead Valley from New York City about a month ago on an “artistic sabbatical.” Krop has spent several summers here acting and singing with the Alpine Theatre Project, but recently decided to come spend a longer period here to rest, write and focus.

“The talent pool here is just as good as in New York City,” Krop said. “I’m excited to be here and have the chance to study and gig and learn from everyone.”

Krop’s journey began in California 28 years ago. Born and raised in the Bay area, his love of music came early thanks to his musical family. Krop’s grandparents played in a band, which exposed him to a performance lifestyle.

“My grandfather retired and then became a gigging musician,” Krop said. “And I think he worked harder doing that!”

Music was a big part of Krop’s young life. His first recording was when he was just 3 or 4 years old singing Christmas songs along with his grandmother in their home. Krop said he remembers that at one point he messed up some lyrics, and made his grandmother stop and go back to record the correct version.

“Even at that age I had to get it right,” Krop said, laughing.

Krop hasn’t stopped singing — or striving for perfection — since.

Krop wrote his first original song at age 11. He later performed as part of his high school’s choir program, and after graduation went on to the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City.

“I always wanted to be a recording artist and songwriter,” Krop said.

That goal has taken him all over the world. After completing school in New York, Krop performed as the lead vocalist aboard the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. He eventually landed back in New York, and made his debut on Broadway in “Godspell” in 2011.

“‘Godspell’ was awesome,” Krop said. “I got to meet and work with some really great people.”

Krop’s theatrical talents brought him to the Flathead Valley with the Alpine Theatre Project three summers ago. He fell in love with the area and just keeps coming back. Last summer he performed in the productions of “Tommy,” “Big River,” and “Guys and Dolls.”

Although Krop said he enjoys theater, and plans to perform with the Alpine Theatre Project again this coming season, ultimately it isn’t where he wants to be. That’s what his extended trip to the Valley is all about.

“Music is an expression of yourself,” Krop said. “I want to stay true to that. When you have casting people and agents telling you what to do all the time ... That’s a challenge. I needed to step away from that.”

Stepping away from that has already produced some new songs and new local musical collaborations. Krop said he hopes there is a lot more to come.

Later this spring Krop is planning a trip to Los Angeles to record his latest material. He said his plan is to have an EP ready to release by the end of the summer.

His sound and influences vary widely, but overall Krop described himself as “very pop … like a happy Sam Smith.”

Krop’s music is available on iTunes as well as at www.reverbnation.com/ericmichaelkrop. Fans can also follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ericmkrop or on Twitter at @ericmkrop.

Local audiences will have many chances to see Krop perform live in the coming months. His next performance will be on Saturday, March 7, at the Whitefish Lake Lodge. On Friday, March 13, he will perform at Crush Lounge in Whitefish.

Krop said he looks forward to performing here, but is especially focused on writing new songs.

“I like to write songs people can relate to,” Krop said. “Any universal thing, like love and heartbreak ... That’s what people connect with and it’s what I want to sing about.”

Entertainment editor Stefanie Johnson can be reached at 758-4439 or ThisWeek@dailyinterlake.com.