British musician to play Bluebird

Musician Bobby Long never said he wanted to be famous.

“I only knew that I wanted to write and play albums and make a living out of it,” he said.

Though Long’s initial intentions were not to become famous, people cannot help but to be drawn to his unique sound, and in a way, fame is coming naturally. 

“I think he’s different than the usual British rock,” junior Amelia Chong said. “He almost reminds me of Sufjan Stevens or Jeff Buckley. It’s easily listened to and everyone likes easy listening.”

Though the British musician started playing the guitar at age 17, his work didn’t become widely acknowledged until his song “Let Me Sign” landed a spot on the “Twilight” soundtrack. Long has been brewing quite the fan base ever since.

“The celebrity stuff freaks me out a bit,” Long said. “People came up to me in New York because they recognized me, and I’m just like wow that’s bizarre.”

But people do not have to be a Twilight fan to appreciate his music.

“I don’t watch ‘Twilight’ but as far as the soundtrack goes, Paramore and the other artists kind of have this dark, rock, alternative sound,” Chong said, “In that mix, his lighter folk sound stands out.”

Currently, Long is working on his debut album, ”A Winter Tale,” which is set to release on Feb. 1, 2011. The record was produced by Grammy winner Liam Watson.

After the “Twilight” soundtrack, Long’s market seems to appeal to the “Twilight” fan tweens. However, Long said he hopes that his music will get a positive response from college-aged groups as well.

“The album is something I am proud of,” Long said. “I hope I have created something that doesn’t falter, fade or become forgotten. I want to create a lasting impression.”

As of Oct. 18, Long began his North American tour where he hopes to promote his upcoming album.

“I’ve always wanted to come over here,” Long said. “It’s such a big country and everything is just so different. I really like the south.”

Long will perform with Michael Franti & Spearhead at 8 p.m. today at Bluebird
Nightclub.

Chong said she believes Long will do well in Bloomington.

“Bloomington markets itself as a very artsy place,” Chong said. “Folk music reminds me of fall and nature, and that’s the vibe here. All around it’s a very chill sound which people will like.” 

Long said he plans on playing some of his new songs including “Isis Take Me Home.”
“It’s always nice playing new songs, it’s fresh and enlightening,” Long said. “If you’re enjoying what you play, so will other people.”