By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-01-19 12:02:16
Born & Raised, the latest album by Kenny Hughes, offers a diverse, soulful blend of familiar favorites from his single releases of the past five years, along with two new tracks that display his musical versatility. Each track captures a unique narrative, reflecting Hughes’ personal journey and artistic exploration. In a recent interview, Hughes shared his insights and experiences about his musical journey and the creation of Born & Raised.
Hughes reflected on his extensive travels and the impact it has had on his artistic growth. He emphasized the invaluable lessons learned on the road and how it has molded his music. He also acknowledged the evolution of his music from a strict blues genre to a more encompassing blues-rock-funk vibe, reflecting his personal growth as an artist.
With regards to his new album, Born & Raised, Hughes revealed that the album is a culmination of years of experience, with each song representing a specific chapter in his life. He discussed how the creative process behind the album allowed him to reflect on the different emotional and creative states he experienced while writing the songs. The album, predominantly a blend of soulful blues with rock undertones, marks his artistic evolution since his first release.
Hughes also recognized the significant influence of producers Evert Snyman and Jo Ellis on the sound of the album, noting that their creative inputs added depth and richness to the tracks. Furthermore, his collaborations with artists like Evert Snyman and Albert Frost enhanced his musical experience and provided him with valuable learning opportunities.
The interview also touched on Hughes’ favorite track, ‘Blues Truth’, from the album and the inspiration behind its creation. He expressed a special connection to the song as it was the first one he wrote, signifying the beginning of his musical journey.
With influences from legendary guitarists like J.J. Cale, Jimi Hendrix, Mark Knopfler, and John Mayer, Hughes discussed the impact of these influences on his playing style. He emphasized the importance of honoring the blues tradition in his music and how it continues to play a pivotal role in his musical expression.
In closing, Hughes reflected on his career highlights, including his remarkable success as a musician. He highlighted memorable achievements such as reaching No 1 on the Mix FM SA Top 40 and being a finalist in the Banger Music Awards in the US. He expressed gratitude for these achievements and acknowledged the hard work and dedication that led to his success.
As a parting note, Hughes invited listeners to experience the rich tapestry of his musical journey through Born & Raised, encouraging them to explore the album and immerse themselves in his artistic evolution.
