Prior to forming Collective Soul, Ed studied songwriting/composing and guitar at Berklee College of Music in Boston and worked at Real 2 Reel Studios in Atlanta. He was part of a few local bands including a short lived one called "Marching Two-Step" and performed solo during the late 1980s and early 90's. Ed released a solo album, Ed-E Roland in 1991. This album was an indie project pressed in limited quantaties. It did however showcase his abilities to write, compose and perform music long before the success and fame with Collective Soul. With hopes of finding some success in the music business, he was also trying to secure publishing and songwriting deals. Ed grew frustrated as he approached 30 years of age, trying to "get a break" and even thought about giving up. During 1993, Hints, Allegations & Things Left Unsaid had caught the ear of a college station in Orlando. They had started playing "Shine", and soon other stations followed. This got the attention of Atlantic Records who signed Collective Soul in early 1994 to a major label contract. That album was composed almost entirely by Ed.

During his time with Collective Soul, Ed has become a very skilled writer and vocalist known for composing catchy songs, many of which had "hit song" qualities. His versatility in the studio doing many different tasks has made him one of the most respected songwriters in modern music. The band has experienced many high levels of mainstream success with numerous big-hits and gold/platinum selling albums. Records which were mostly produced by Ed. Over the years he has led the band through many tours and various high profile performances including Woodstock 1994 and Woodstock 1999. They managed to last through the early millennium cliches and changes in the music industry. They returned in 2004/2005 with new albums and touring. Ed hasn't finished his musical endeavours yet.