Ed's passion for writing began in the third grade thanks to a teacher who read poetry to the class every morning. He has been writing lyrics and stories ever since, studying poetry and short story writing in high school and college. While working on his minor in English at Ohio State University, he studied poetry under Gordon Grigsby, Professor of English, Emeritus. Grigsby, demanding and stern, had a profound effect on Ed's writing, challenging him to expect more from himself, to demand more. Though not a musical one, Ed still lists Grigsby as one of his most significant influences.

Ed's passion for music began early, fostered by the musical family that surrounded him. His father, a native South African, taught the family to sing traditional Zulu songs; his mother, a singer and guitarist for the church folk group, taught him his first chords at age 15; his older sister for years filled the house with her piano playing, everything from Bach to Scott Joplin; and his older brother introduced him to some his biggest influences, Jimi Hendrix, The Police, and Van Halen.

Generally a self-taught guitarist in his years at Hanover High School in New Hampshire, Ed absorbed most of his ‘lessons’ by listening to U2, learning songs by ear. With some friends from his hockey team, he formed a band that played parties and school dances.

In his college years, Ed’s real songwriting stage began, inspired by his new interest in singing. After playing in several different Columbus bands, including Local Color from ’93 to ’96, Ed toured with ekoostik hookah until December '05, then left to dedicate himself to One Under. For the last 17 years, he has been engaging crowds with songs like Only Falling, Alexander I & II, and Yumalaiella. (yoo - muh - lay - ELL - uh)

When One Under is not playing, Ed can be found playing ice hockey, drinking Heineken, or watching Grey's Anatomy.