Branan (submitted)

Cory Branan, a celebrated songwriter, will perform at the Blue Moon Cafe Sunday, Dec. 4 at 8 p.m. Branan, who has toured with Lucero and Dashboard Confessional, has performed on the Late Show with David Letterman.

The Shepherdstown Chronicle conducted a Q&A with Branan before his performance.

Q: What are your musical influences?

A: John Prine, Prince, Black Flag, the Baptist hymnal… Ya know – The usual.

Q: What is your songwriting process?

A: Differs wildly. Torturous sometimes – words first. Sometimes a long distillation. Sometimes a no-bake cookie.

Q: How would you describe your musical style?

A: MUTT.

Q: What sets you apart?

A: Nature and nurture? In seriousness I’d have to say my humor. Southerners use it for things other than being funny.

Q: What are your goals musically and/or career wise?

A: Musically – make better and more diverse records. Career wise-carve out a faithful touring circuit that will brave the changes and to produce and write for others.

Q: What can the Shepherdstown audience expect for your show at the Blue Moon?

A: I’ve come to count on infinite patience and rather low standards – so, the greatest (non-animal n’children) show on this fat blue planet.