Brian Hughes
A few words with guitarist, pianist and singer-songwriter Brian Hughes.

Leicester Bangs: Tell us a little about yourself, and your band.
Brian: I’m an award winning Scottish singer-songwriter, now established as one of the leading writers in the UK 'Modern Country' scene. I’ve four independent album releases and a songwriter contract with a major American publishing house. I have enjoyed playing with my band at most UK country festivals and touring the States and Europe over the last few years. 2011 sees me take a larger (9 piece) band out on a short 'mainstream' Scottish tour to promote the new album. Depending how that goes may see us venture further afield.

LB: How did you start out making music?
Brian: I picked up a guitar at 17 and never really put it down, other than a 12-year spell I didn't play a note, when I joined the Police Service in Glasgow and there I remained for 22 years before concentrating on a full time career in music. Meeting Mary Chapin Carpenter was a turning point in my life and with her encouragement, went pro in music, signing the deal with AMG Atlanta. Several of my songs have been shortlisted for major artistes such as Travis Tritt and Blake Shelton, but none have got over the final hurdle... yet!

One of the songs off the new album is with Sugarland's management at the moment, so... maybe!

LB: Who did you grow up listening to and how do they influence what you’re doing now?
Brian: As a kid the only music I heard growing up was my fathers in-car entertainment system consisting of Ella Fitzgerald, Glen Campbell, Neil Diamond and The Beach Boys. I later loved Buddy Holly and Roy Orbison before finding rock music in the shape of Led Zeppelin and it was then I started writing and playing in several rock bands. Bruce Springsteen was my next 'discovery' and he still is my number one inspiration and musical hero. My writing nowadays is down to meeting Mary Chapin Carpenter and being introduced to modern country music which I love, and believe it’s just an extension of the rock styles I listened so much to in my formative years.

LB: Tell us about your latest release.
Brian: The new album MY KIND OF PARADISE has just been released and I am absolutely delighted with it. I was really fortunate to work with respected Glasgow producer Alan Scobie, and we put together some great session players resulting in a recording that stands shoulder to shoulder with the latest Nashville offerings. I believe it’s my best collection of songs to date, and without doubt will change the perception of British country music. From the opener DAMASCUS ROAD to the closing title track, it has been described by respected media outlets as possibly the finest country album to be released by a British artist, which I am very proud of. Check it out reviewers.

LB: Do you get out and play your music live, and if so, what can an audience expect at one of your shows?
Brian: I take my band out for the occasional UK Country Festival and special event. The live show is full of energy and emotion as can only be when performing original material. We have just returned from festivals in Norway where we went down a storm and have been asked to return as soon as possible, however with other touring commitments, will have to see. I’m thinking over an offer to tour New Zealand next year, so will see what happens there.

LB: What aspects of playing and recording music do you most enjoy?
Brian: For someone who spends half his life in a recording studio, both at home and work, I actually HATE recording. For those that have done it, the pressure is on you from the moment the red light goes on! I have heard some great players who can't cut it in the studio, and have seen huge egos destroyed with so much pressure, but you know it's all gonna be worth it, don't you?

I enjoy live performances and when you can stop and let the audience sing your song for you, well that's just the best feeling in the world!

LB: Where can people find (and buy) your music?
Brian: Check everything you need to know about me on:
www.brianhughesmusic.com
where there are links to buy all of my albums.

Think you didn't like Country Music... it’s time to think again!