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Singer is far from his “Twilight”

Posted Nov 6, 2009 by Clarisa Gerlach

Updated Nov 6, 2009 at 04:18 PM

Bobby Long is best known for a song he’s never sung.

The Brit musician, currently on a U.S. solo tour that comes to the Dunedin Brewery Saturday, Nov. 7, co-wrote “Let Me Sign,” which was performed in the film “Twilight” by its star, Long’s pal, Robert Pattinson. 

Fans coming to hear Long solely for his “Twilight” connection will leave disappointed.

“When I came to American in April I was primarily known for that,” Long says of “Let Me Sign.”

While the “Twilight” connection may have been the initial lure for patrons to go see relatively unknown singer-songwriter, he says the audience is past that now.

“The “Twilight” fans are an absolute minority now,” Long says by telephone driving between gigs in Tuscaloosa, Ala., and Atlanta. “I think more people come in who like my music. I see people in the crowd singing along to my songs.”

Long’s MySpace site is the primary outlet for fans to hear his music. He’s recorded two CDs, one live in New York, one in his bedroom, which are available only at his shows. He’s working on his first proper recording between tours at London’s Toe Rag Studios, where The White Stripes made “Elephant.” Studio owner Liam Watson is producing.

Toe Rag is known for its collection of vintage analog equipment, fitting considering Long’s influences.

“I really like Woody Guthrie, Richie Havens, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott and Bob Dylan,” Long says. “For modern times, I like Bright Eyes and Elliott Smith.”

Long and Watson hit it off immediately.

“I wanted to record live,” Long says, “and on our first day in the studio he told me he wanted to record live. We got on really well. I’m very luck to work with him.”

Long hopes to release the album in May or June.

As for “Twilight,” Long is grateful.

“It’s given me the opportunity to tour the U.S.,” Long says. “I’ve been constantly picking up new fans.”

Long performs at 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, at the Dunedin Brewery, 937 Douglas Ave. in Dunedin. For more information, call (727) 736-0606.