By Nicholas Jason Lopez
With a knack for melody since a young age, Musician Dan Hughes first gained experience as a member of various local bands and eventually branched out to become a solo artist/session player.
In 2016, Hughes recorded and released his debut album ‘Neil’ under the moniker DHT, to which he supported with four international tours in three years in Europe and Far East Asia. ‘Neil’ also became the first British album to be released on Panda Records, an Indian record label owned by Rajesh Panda.
In 2019, Hughes worked with longtime collaborators Bob Dabrowski and “Eyeball” on the follow-up to ‘Neil,’ a self-titled EP that was eventually released in February 2020 and is currently available on all streaming services. Since its release, it has gained airplay across Asia, Europe, Australia and the United States.
The Music Bugle had the chance to talk with Hughes about the new EP and more.
Music Bugle – How do you feel about your latest EP? How does it compare to your earlier work?
Dan Hughes – Good question! I feel as if the new self-titled EP is more polished than the first record. I think I have matured both as a songwriter and producer.
Music Bugle – How did you come up with the name DHT? What does it symbolize for you?
Dan Hughes – DHT stands for Dan Hughes Trio. DHT symbolizes collaboration and true expression. It’s all about the music.
Music Bugle – For you, what was the most memorable moment while on the road/on tour?
Dan Hughes – I been lucky enough to have toured in different countries and experienced different cultures. Each tour is special in its own way! One memory that sticks out in my mind is the first time I toured Far East Asia and landed in Seoul, South Korea. It is such a buzzing place every time I go. It still feels like magic.
Music Bugle – Which of your musical influences do you feel shine the most in your music?
Dan Hughes – I could name a load of artists that I love, but if you asked me again later, the answer would be different. I love music with soul and passion. If it draws me in and speaks to me, then I love it. Doesn’t matter what genre it is, as long as they play from the heart!
Music Bugle – Has the COVID-19 outbreak affected you in any way?
Dan Hughes – As many working musicians, it’s hit me pretty hard, with not being able to perform live, but the good thing is musicians always can adapt and grow in different ways, especially with the internet.
Music Bugle – What is your most meaningful song or set of lyrics?
Dan Hughes – The first song off the new EP, ‘Feels Like Thunder.’ I wrote the lyrics after hearing my friend was going to be a dad for the first time with his wife-to-be, the music I wrote when I was touring in the Caribbean.
Music Bugle – What should people know about you as a person?
Dan Hughes – I am a down-to-earth guy that loves music. I live and breathe it!
Music Bugle – What do you look to accomplish that you haven’t yet?
Dan Hughes – Keep making records that touch and affect people, tour more parts of the world and keep growing as an artist and a musician.
Music Bugle – What has been your proudest moment as a musician?
Dan Hughes – There have been so many moments, like having lessons from Mark Knopfler and Tommy Emmanuel, Touring different parts of the world, getting my music on TV and national radio stations, but I think what I am proudest of is making a living from music!
Music Bugle – Being that you had started music at a young age, do you have any advice for young people who would be interested in pursuing music?
Dan Hughes – The age you are doesn’t matter. Young or old, just stay humble, work hard at your craft and make it all about the music. There’s a saying – “If you feed the music, then the music will feed you.” Enjoy the process. It’s not about being the best, but just about trying to be a better version of yourself and enjoying the journey.
