Eric Brittingham is best known as the bassist for the iconic American rock band Cinderella, a group that helped define the melodic, guitar-driven sound of the late 1980s. As a founding member, his bass work and backing vocals contribute to the band’s signature blend of hard rock and pop sensibility.
Alongside guitarist Tom Keifer and drummer Fred Coury, Brittingham helped steer Cinderella through a meteodic rise, enduring lineup changes, and a lasting legacy in the world of arena rock. The following sections explore his role, key milestones, and influence within the band.
| Name | Role | Joined | Key Albums |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tom Keifer | Lead vocals | 1985 | Night Songs, Long Cold Winter, Heartbreak Station |
| Eric Brittingham | Bass, backing vocals | 1985 | Night Songs, Long Cold Winter, Heartbreak Station, Still Climbing |
| Fred Coury | Drums | 1985 | Night Songs, Long Cold Winter, Heartbreak Station, Still Climbing |
| Michael Kelly Smith | Guitar | 1985–1990 | Night Songs, Long Cold Winter |
| Jeff LaBar | Guitar | 1991–1994, 2000s | Heartbreak Station, Still Climbing |
Musical Foundations and Early Years
Formation and Role
Brittingham co-founded the band that would become Cinderella in the early 1980s, helping to shape their riff-heavy yet radio-friendly approach. His bass lines provided a solid foundation for the twin-guitar harmonies and Keifer’s soaring vocals.
Breakthrough with Night Songs
The 1986 debut album Night Songs showcased the band’s hard rock edge and melodic hooks, with Brittingham’s contributions evident in tracks like the singles and deeper album cuts. The album’s success established Cinderella as major players in mainstream rock.
Peak Commercial Success
Long Cold Winter and Chart Performance
Released in 1988, Long Cold Winter expanded the band’s sound with orchestral elements and tighter songwriting. Brittingham’s steady bass work supported complex arrangements and multi-part song structures.
Heartbreak Station and Mainstream Recognition
Cinderella’s third studio album, Heartbreak Station, delivered polished power ballads and harder rock tracks. Brittingham’s backing vocals and bass presence added texture, helping the album solidify the band’s arena rock status.
Lineup Changes and Later Work
Hiatus and Reformation Attempts
After the early 1990s, Cinderella went on hiatus, with members pursuing solo projects and other collaborations. Brittingham remained involved in efforts to reunite the classic lineup and preserve the band’s catalog.
Still Climbing and Modern Activity
The 1994 album Still Climbing reflected the band’s continued evolution, with Brittingham anchoring the rhythm section through shifting styles. Recent tours and releases highlight his enduring role in keeping Cinderella’s sound alive.
Musical Style and Influence
Bass Technique and Songwriting Role
Brittingham combines melodic counterpoints with groove-oriented lines, often integrating slides, fingerstyle, and punchy muted rhythms. His songwriting input helped craft memorable intros and transitional sections within Cinderella’s tracks.
Legacy in Hair Metal and Arena Rock
Alongside contemporaries, Cinderella helped bridge glam metal and more mature arena rock. Brittingham’s consistency and adaptability contributed to the band’s longevity and influence on subsequent generations of rock musicians.
Key Takeaways
- Eric Brittingham is a founding member and bassist of Cinderella, present on all major studio albums.
- His playing anchors the band’s rhythm section and supports their blend of hard rock and pop melody.
- He contributed to songwriting and arrangements during peak years in the late 1980s.
- Brittingham remained active through lineup changes and continues to participate in reunion activities.
- His tone and stage presence remain influential among rock bassists.
FAQ
Reader questions
What bass guitar does Eric Brittingham use in live shows?
Brittingham typically plays a Fender Precision Bass or a custom signature model onstage, paired with Ampeg or Aguilar amplification for a warm, punchy tone that cuts through the mix.
Did he contribute to songwriting for Night Songs and Long Cold Winter?
Yes, he co-wrote several songs and helped arrange parts, often collaborating with guitarist Tom Keifer and drummer Fred Coury to refine hooks and transitions.
How did lineup shifts affect his role in the band?
Guitarist changes required adjustments in harmony parts and live arrangements, but Brittingham’s foundational bass role remained central, allowing the band to maintain its sound.
What are his plans for future Cinderella projects?
He has expressed interest in new material and touring, provided the classic lineup can align schedules, though no official album or extensive tour has been confirmed recently.