The Athens musician will perform a free show at 6 p.m. Thursday at The Copper Pot, 135 Grant St. in Clarkesville. His latest album, "Union Park & Magnolia Street," was released in July and has lots of musical ties to Van Morrison, who Beckham told us was a major influence on his musical career.

Question: Was there a certain band or musician who inspired you to go into music as a career?

Answer: "There are many who inspired me to do that, (but) Van Morrison — (his album) "Moondance" — that just made a huge difference in my life. That album was one of the first that grasped different types of music."

Q: If you could play one venue, what would it be?

A: "I think the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. It’s where the Grand Ole Opry used to be — the stage that Hank Williams played on."

Q: What is your favorite instrument and why?

A: "The guitar — I love the guitar. It’s constantly challenging, and I feel every time I pick it up, I learn something new. It never gets old."

Q: What’s the best idea or inspiration you’ve had for a song recently?

A: "It’s not on the album, but I’m really happy with a song I wrote, "Dancing in the Kitchen," about me and my girlfriend staying in for the night."

Q: Why should we go see you at The Copper Pot?

A: "I hope everyone would have a good time. I try to keep it fun, and I hope everyone will enjoy the music."