Ernie Tom is a singer-songwriter musician whose artistry is deeply rooted in the diverse musical styles that have influenced his life, including Country, Rock, Hip Hop, and Americana. His unique sound reflects a rich tapestry of experiences, drawing from his past as an aspiring rodeo cowboy. This dream took a tragic turn in 2004 when a bad rodeo accident forced him to re-evaluate his path. Despite this setback, Ernie has never forgotten the lessons learned and the values instilled through a life connected to the western way of living. These themes permeate his songwriting, transforming real-life experiences into heartfelt lyrics that resonate with listeners.
Residing in Eastern Arizona, Ernie and his wife, Heidi, nurture a vibrant family life with their three children. The expansive skies and majestic mountains of their home provide an inspiring backdrop for the many adventures they share as a family. Over the past two decades, they have created a wealth of memories together, often enjoying the great outdoors and forging connections with family and friends. This close-knit dynamic fuels Ernie’s passion for music, as he channels the joy and challenges of family life into his creative work.
Ernie’s roots run deep, having been raised on the Navajo Nation as a full-blooded Navajo. He belongs to the Two Who Came To The Water Clan and is born for the Meadow People Clan, which adds layers of cultural significance to his music. His early musical training encompassed instruments like the French horn, trumpet, and baritone during high school, laying a strong foundation for his artistic pursuits. In a testament to his self-reliance, Ernie currently self-produces and tracks his records, which enables him to maintain a personal touch in his music. He showcases an impressive array of talents, passionately playing acoustic and electric guitar, harmonica, and bass guitar.
Since 2007, Ernie has been an active participant in the live music scene, initially gaining recognition with his former band, The Perfect Strangers. Alongside bandmates Vernon Tom and Daniel John, Ernie contributed to the emergence of a distinctive red dirt country sound that became a defining feature of the Navajo Nation music landscape. Although The Perfect Strangers eventually disbanded due to personal circumstances, the camaraderie and love for music among the members endured, allowing them to continue their musical journeys through other collaborations.
In recent years, Ernie faced profound grief with the passing of his cousin brother, Vernon, as well as his beloved Papa Tom and mother. In the wake of these losses, he turned to music and songwriting as a source of healing, helping him process his emotions and find solace amidst the heartache. This experience has infused his music with a sense of authenticity and depth, enriching the narratives he shares through his guitar.
Throughout his journey, Ernie has been profoundly grateful for the unwavering support from his wife, family, and friends. Their encouragement propels him forward as he embarks on this exciting new chapter of his musical career. Enthralled by the possibilities that lie ahead, Ernie looks forward to connecting with audiences and sharing his story through his art. If you have followed this journey thus far, he sincerely appreciates your support and encouragement in his musical endeavors.
ERNIE TOM ENTERTAINMENT 