Fresh off his completion of 8 years of active duty service and departure from the military, A.T. Branch is ready to deliver his debut EP, RENEGADE (on November 15, 2019).

RENEGADE is about self-actualization, building walls after a relationship, and being in love with an alcoholic, all from a male perspective. Each track, including the title track, has a prominent acoustic anchor that is built on by machine-like/electronic synths giving a cool juxtaposition of chaos and simplicity, which reflects Branch’s own life.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with A.T. about the latest music, challenges, technology and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)

I gladly consider Nashville home; where I’m from has gotten a bit confusing over the years. I like to say I’m alternative pop. RIYL: Allan Rayman, Imagine Dragons, X-Ambassadors, Stromae, Britney Spears 🙂

What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?

Music was my first love that got away. You’re welcome for the double cliché. But seriously, I loved singing, but I didn’t think music was a career option (Thanks, Dad), so I pursued more practical, but noble things…like going to West Point then serving my country for 8 years. Fortunately, I finagled my way into an Army job that brought me to Nashville. Being surrounded by such a dense population of talent, I quickly learned that music wasn’t just a pastime for me, it was a passion so I switched gears to set out on this journey. What motivates me to keep going? Hmmm. The support of well wishers and the reminder that I can give a voice to not only my own story, but also to someone else’s.

How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?

This EP, ‘Renegade’ is my first release.  I wanted to take risks as an artist and I think I bared more of myself than originally intended. I discussed some past hurts from breakups/relationships, I challenged myself to discuss some sexual challenges, and I tried to tactfully express my thoughts on the perception of black/brown men in media and, in some corners, society. 

Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)? 

I think the biggest challenge is trying to figure out who and where your audience is. 

My record was predominantly funded by kickstarter support and while I knew or knew of 90% of my donors, getting my message out directly and via social media channels really helped me reach my goal.

What was the last song you listened to?

‘Too Much’ by my friend Mae Estes.

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

I’m not cool enough to have jumped on the vinyl train, YET. 

How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why? 

Spotify has the easiest model for me to understand, so it’s a default preference.

Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?

atbranch.com or @atbranchlive on all socials

Anything else before we sign off?

Thanks for the opportunity. I’m ever so grateful.