Eric Kretz net worth is a hot topic among fans of 90s rock music. As the powerhouse behind the drums for the Stone Temple Pilots, Kretz helped shape the sound of a generation. Beyond his band days, he’s also a talented music producer, studio owner, and songwriter. But how did he build his wealth, and what’s he doing in 2026? Let’s break it down.
Who Is Eric Kretz?
Eric Kretz is best known as the drummer of Stone Temple Pilots, one of the most successful 90s rock bands from the United States. He’s also a skilled sound engineer and founder of a top-notch LA recording facility. While Scott Weiland, the band’s lead singer, often got the spotlight, Kretz’s steady beats were the backbone of their sound.
Over the years, he became more than just a drummer. He played a big part in writing music, especially on the Grammy-winning track “Plush.” Today, Kretz wears many hats—producer, studio boss, and quiet rock legend.
Eric Kretz Height and Signature Rock Appearance
Eric Kretz has a classic rock‑drummer look that matches his laid‑back personality. He stands around 5 feet 10 inches tall, with a solid build shaped by years of performing on stage. His long hair and casual style became part of the 90s rock image, giving him a rugged yet relaxed presence that fans instantly recognize.
Early Life and Background
Born on June 7, 1966, in San Jose, California, Kretz grew up surrounded by music. As a San Jose California musician, he discovered drums early. By high school, he was already performing at local gigs. His musical tastes were shaped by classic rock, jazz, and 70s metal.
Kretz didn’t come from a showbiz family. But his dedication helped him break into the music scene. From garage bands to underground venues, his journey started with hustle and a love for rhythm.
How Eric Kretz Started His Music Career?
In the late ’80s, Kretz met brothers Dean DeLeo and Robert DeLeo, along with Scott Weiland, and they formed a band that would become Stone Temple Pilots. Their mix of grunge and hard rock found fans fast. Early performances around California gained buzz.
Their demo caught attention, leading to a record deal in 1992. Soon, they released Core, which included the hit “Plush”—a song that won them a Grammy Award and launched their careers. That was the moment Eric Kretz’s net worth began to grow.
Rise to Fame with Stone Temple Pilots
With the release of albums like Purple, Tiny Music, and No. 4, the Stone Temple Pilots band became a household name. Kretz’s drumming stood out, especially on tracks like “Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart”, showcasing his skill and energy.
The band earned 90s rock awards, including MTV Music Awards and a Grammy. Their style, a blend of grunge and hard rock, helped define the grunge rock era. Songs like “Vasoline”, “Interstate Love Song”, and “Big Bang Baby” remain iconic today.
Eric Kretz Net Worth in 2026
So, how much is Eric Kretz Net worth in 2026? His estimated net worth is $10 million, according to multiple sources. This wealth comes from years of performing, royalties, producing music, and owning his own studio.
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
| 2000 | $2.5 Million |
| 2010 | $5 Million |
| 2020 | $8 Million |
| 2026 | $10 Million |
The steady growth shows how Kretz moved from being just a drummer to a full-on businessman in the music world.
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Main Sources of Income
What is Eric Kretz’s source of income? There are several:
- Royalties from classic Stone Temple Pilots songs
- Revenue from live performances and reunion tours
- His LA music studio, Bomb Shelter Studios, which works with major artists
- Music production and mixing for big names
- Studio rentals and engineering services
He turned his passion into smart business moves. That’s how Eric Kretz made his money—by blending talent with opportunity.
Notable Projects Outside STP
Kretz didn’t just stick to one band. He formed the Talk Show band during Weiland’s time away from STP. The group released an album in 1997, and though short-lived, it showed Kretz’s range.
In the studio world, he’s worked with Thom Yorke, Damian Marley, Ben Harper, Slayer, Death Cab for Cutie, and Jurassic 5. Which famous artists has Eric Kretz produced for? These names prove he’s trusted across genres—from reggae to rock to hip-hop.
Eric Kretz’s Property and Lifestyle
While Kretz isn’t flashy, he owns valuable assets. His biggest investment is Bomb Shelter Studios by Eric Kretz, located in Los Angeles. It’s known for top-quality sound and gear, making it a hub for many musicians.
Though details about his homes are private, he’s believed to live near the studio in LA. His drum gear and vintage studio equipment are also worth noting. Unlike many stars, he leads a quiet life focused on sound rather than fame.
Eric Kretz Personal Life: Is He Married?
Is Eric Kretz married? That’s a mystery. Kretz keeps his personal life away from cameras. There are no known public records of a spouse or children.
What’s clear is his passion for music. When he’s not drumming or producing, he’s often found in the studio working behind the scenes. His low-key personality sets him apart from typical rock stars.
Lesser-Known Facts and Music Trivia
Many don’t know that Eric Kretz wrote the lyrics to “Plush.” That’s rare for a drummer. It’s part of why the song won a Grammy Award and remains iconic.
He also designed parts of the STP stage setup and contributed to their visual style. His favorite drummers include John Bonham and Stewart Copeland, which shaped his dynamic style.
He often performed barefoot and preferred raw, analog drum sounds over electronic ones—a nod to his alternative rock drummer roots.
Eric Kretz’s Influence on Rock Music
As a 90s rock legend, Kretz influenced a generation of drummers. He kept things tight and simple, allowing the rest of the band to shine. His work on tracks like “Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart” became a blueprint for alt-rock drumming.
He balanced chaos with control, which helped set Stone Temple Pilots apart from other grunge rock era bands. His legacy isn’t about fame but about the foundation he built for his band.
What’s Eric Kretz Doing Now in 2026?
What’s Eric Kretz doing now in 2026? He’s still active behind the scenes. Kretz runs Bomb Shelter Studios, working with indie and mainstream artists alike. His focus now is on mentoring and producing rather than touring.
Is Eric Kretz still with Stone Temple Pilots? Yes, but in a part-time role. He joins for major shows and recordings but prefers studio life. He’s built a second career that’s just as powerful as his first.
FAQs
Q1. How much is the Kretz family worth?
Eric Kretz is worth about $10 million in 2026. There’s no public info about the total Kretz family net worth.
Q2. What happened to the Stone Temple Pilots?
They’re still active with a new singer. The band keeps touring and making music, even after Scott Weiland passed away.
Q3. How did Eric Kretz join Stone Temple Pilots?
He met Dean DeLeo and Scott Weiland in California, and they formed the band together in the early 1990s.
Q4. What was Stone Temple Pilots’ original name?
Their first name was Mighty Joe Young, but they changed it before releasing their first album.
Q5. What does Aqualung mean in the Jethro Tull song?
It’s about a homeless man. The word “Aqualung” refers to the wheezing sound he makes, like a scuba tank.
Q6. Which song did Coldplay steal from Joe Satriani?
Satriani claimed “Viva La Vida” copied his song “If I Could Fly”, but the case was settled privately.
Final Thoughts
Eric Kretz biography and net worth reflect a life built on rhythm, creativity, and smart choices. From a San Jose, California kid to a Grammy Award-winning artist and respected music producer, Kretz proves you don’t need to be in the spotlight to shine.
Whether you’re a fan of Stone Temple Pilots, a music nerd, or someone curious about rock icons, his story is one worth knowing. And if you’re wondering about the Stone Temple Pilots members net worth comparison, Kretz holds his own, not just as a drummer but as a creative force with staying power.
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