Every week I write a column called BE YOU for one of the local papers (The Times of Acadiana) – Each week someone different answers the questionnaire – the paper often has to edit them,  so here are all the answers, unedited (the whole truth) :

André Broussard

If you listen to KRVS you may have heard André Broussard, he has a show called The Flip Side that plays soul and R&B hits from way back and today. He is also a graphic designer. André is one of those creative types who knows far more about music and design than is good for any one individual. If he was to be judged on his music knowledge alone you would have to come to the conclusion that he is at least 52. Watch this guy – he has big things ahead. (He also has a sense of humor, you have been warned)

What was your first job?
‘Bus Boy’ at a local ‘Irish-themed’ chain-restaurant that no longer exists. You know the one.

Describe a typical day in your life.
Neurosis, and if I have time: lunch.

What advice would you give the younger you?
Take that off, you look stupid. Now go talk to that girl, she’s going to be married in a few years and you’re gonna feel bad about it.

What event in your life most shaped who you are now?
The death of my father.

What values do you live by?
Humor. Empathy. Brevity.

What do you most appreciate?
Historical perspective. Clean bedsheets. Friendly cats.

What is your favorite journey?
Life, tiring though it may be.

Where is your favorite place to be alone?
In my bedroom, with my records.

What living figure most inspires you?
Can I just say “all of my friends?” I’m constantly amazed and humbled by their accomplishments, both personal and professional. I’m grateful to know so many talented folks.

What was the best advice you were ever given?
Eat that. You’ll like it.

What book would you tell everyone to read?
It’s not a book, but Missak Manouchian’s last letter, written to his wife as he awaited execution by the Nazis for his role in the French Résistance, is a sobering treasure of a read. If you ever feel like you need a little perspective, it is easily found on the internet.

What is the best thing about where you live?
The food is as rich as the cultural heritage, and all of the girls look great in sundresses.

How do you “let the good times roll” ?
A bike ride through the Saint Streets on a cool afternoon. A quiet booth and intimate conversation at a local night spot. Bobby Charles on my living-room stereo with the windows open.

What did u want to be when you grew up?
Paleontologist (because dinosaurs) Artist (because comic books)

What is your motto?
I’m not sure.

How would you like to be remembered?
Fondly.

What do you say to yourself when you doubt yourself?
You’re probably right, but let’s ask someone else.

What three things are vital to BEing YOU?
Low Body Mass Index, neurosis, a good suit.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
I tend to say ‘uh’ a lot as a place-holder.

What is your favorite word?
I like all kinda words. I guess ‘judicious’ is a fun one.

What do you collect?
Records. I got lots of records.

What food could you live on for a month?
Sushi. Pad Thai. Adrien’s hamburger patties. Enchiladas. Crawfish etouffee. I’m not listing separate foods, I’m saying I would combine them all and then eat that for a month.

What would you change about yourself?
You don’t have enough space in your column for this one.

What literary, movie or cartoon character do you most identify with?
Gil Gunderson.

Describe yourself in five words.
You’ve seen me around town.

What is your idea of happiness?
A New Year’s Eve party. All of my friends are there. Everyone is beautiful and elated, ecstatic, kinetic, and alive, and it’s midnight. Forever.

What is your favorite movie?
I tend not to watch a lot of movies so I’ll just name the last few I remember seeing: Howl, Four Lions, Micmacs, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World

What music defines who you are?
I’m a Soul Man!

What do you most regret?
Again, not enough space in your column.

What question do you wish I’d asked?
“What question do you wish I’d asked?”

What would the answer be?
“What question do you wish I’d asked?”