From Wood Oaks to the White Sox: Northbrook Native Erika Brett Takes the ALDS Stage
By Colin Danley
Before the Chicago White Sox kicked off their ALDS home playoff game on Wednesday, October 7th, Northbrook native Erika Brett (née Holleb) took the stage at Rate Field to perform with her band, The Empty Pockets.
Brett's path to the stadium began in local classrooms—attending Hickory Point, Shabonee, Wood Oaks, and Glenbrook North (Class of 2000). It was at Wood Oaks where teacher Tammy Ghould encouraged her to join the choir and sing a solo, sparking a lifelong passion for music. Brett went on to immerse herself in GBN’s choirs, musicals, and plays (and more - she's a self-proclaimed lover of all things school).
She continued performing at the University of Illinois, where she initially studied opera before double-majoring in English and Creative Writing. Returning to the Chicago area, a role in a local musical production introduced her to fellow musician (and now husband) Josh Solomon and the other members of the band.
About The Empty Pockets
The Empty Pockets are an independent American rock, blues, and Americana band hailing from Chicago. The quartet is composed of Josh Solomon (guitar/lead vocals), Erika Brett (keyboard/lead vocals), Nate Bellon (bass/vocals), and Adam Balasco (drums).
Known for their tight, soulful sound and independent hustle, the band has built a robust national following. They have recorded and toured as the backing band for legendary classic rock artists including Al Stewart, Gary Wright, and Bad Company's Simon Kirke. Their handcrafted rock and roll has consistently resonated with audiences, leading to major chart success—including hitting #1 on the Billboard Blues Albums chart with their releases Outside Spectrum (2022) and Gotta Find the Moon (2023). The band frequently performs at baseball stadiums across the country.
To hear their music and see upcoming tour dates, visit theemptypockets.com. The band's new album, Dear Billionaires, recorded together at Abbey Road Studio 2, comes out October 23, followed by a hometown release celebration at Garcia’s in Chicago on October 27.