INDIANA – A powerful anthem is sweeping across the Hoosier state, carrying with it a message of redemption, state pride, and a mission to combat ALS. The song, titled simply “INDIANA,” is more than just a catchy track; it is the living legacy of Eric Ryan Allred, known to the music world as Paleface Picasso.
Now, through a collaborative effort by the CTREN Group, school systems, radio stations, and local businesses, the song is being used to raise awareness for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) while celebrating the spirit of Indiana residents.
The journey of “INDIANA” began on January 31, 2010, when Allred officially launched his career. The track quickly caught fire, earning airplay on WLBC-FM and eventually catching the ear of the Indianapolis Colts. By 2012, a high-energy “accelerated” version of the song was officially contracted by the team, cementing its place as a staple of Indiana sports culture.
Unlike many in the genre, Paleface Picasso’s music was rooted in “unfiltered truth.” Allred’s life was marked by extreme highs and lows:
- A Promising Start: A gifted athlete whose future was initially derailed by substance abuse.
- The Struggle: He spent four years in prison and survived being shot four times in 2004.
- The Turning Point: Allred chose to use his past as a deterrent for youth, opting for wit and storytelling over profanity.
His authenticity was so undeniable that it resonated throughout the industry; it is even alleged that Eminem’s 2013 hit “Rap God” was a direct response to Paleface Picasso’s 2012 album, No Stranger to the Struggle.
A Battle With ALS
In 2019, Eric was diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease. Though he passed away on February 7, 2021, his impact on the community only grew. Before his passing, he became a pillar of local sports programs, dedicating his time to mentoring young athletes and showing them that redemption is always possible.
That dedication to excellence lives on in his son, Silas Allred, a standout wrestler for the University of Nebraska currently ranked #5 in the NCAA (184lb class). The Big Ten Network recently featured a documentary highlighting the profound bond between father and son and the legacy Eric left behind.
“He didn’t just turn his life around — he became a source of strength for his community. His presence was a reminder of what dedication and genuine care look like.”
The CTREN Group has released a newly remixed and remastered version of “INDIANA (Gametime)” for 2026, intended for radio play, school events, and businesses. All efforts surrounding the track are focused on honoring Eric’s memory and supporting the fight against ALS.
