Interview with William Odell Hughes: Insights into ‘Loving You Was Easy’
Inspiration from Motown Legends
As someone who has opened for legendary Motown bands, who are some of the Motown artists that inspire you?
William Odell Hughes cites a range of Motown icons as his inspirations, including The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder. The influence of these artists is palpable in his music, reflecting the timeless essence of Motown.
The Vibe of ‘Loving You Was Easy’
This song is perfect for a relaxing summer drive. Was that vibe intentional from the start?
Hughes expresses his delight in the song’s reception but admits that the relaxed vibe was not a deliberate choice during its creation.
Experimentation in Songcraft
The backing vocals give this track a playful twist. What pushes you to experiment in your songcraft?
Hughes explains that his approach to backing vocals often involves a trial-and-error process. By stacking the vocals, he achieves the desired effect while maintaining harmony with the lead vocal. The use of separate tracks for lead and background vocals makes this experimentation smoother.
Emotional Moments in Creation
Were there any specific moments during the creation of ‘Loving You Was Easy’ that felt especially impactful or emotional to you?
For Hughes, the first verse of the song holds a significant emotional weight, marking a pivotal moment in the creative process.
Visual Storytelling in Music
We’re loving the puppets featured in the music video! How important is visual storytelling when presenting your music, and why did you choose to go this route for ‘Loving You Was Easy’?
Hughes reveals that the puppets, affectionately dubbed “the twins,” were inspired by the quirky nature of the song’s squeaky voice. His vision was to blend humor with entertainment, creating a music video that felt like a mini-film, inviting the audience into a playful narrative.
The State of Funk and Soul
Do you feel that a funk and soul revival is on the horizon, or perhaps, already here?
Hughes believes that the essence of funk and soul never truly left the music scene. He acknowledges the industry’s attempts to recreate it but emphasizes that genuine experience is irreplaceable. Sampling serves as a bridge, but he feels confident that his own work can contribute to a revival.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
What advice would you give to fellow artists trying to find their unique voice and style?
Hughes encourages emerging artists to train their voices and develop their musical ear. He stresses the importance of exploring diverse music genres and finding a personal approach to their craft.
Future Projects and Dreams
Do you hope to release tracks or music videos like ‘Loving You Was Easy’ in future projects? What is your dream project?
Hughes is open to future projects that resonate with the public and industry executives. His dream project aims to transform his artistic visions into reality, ensuring that his music reaches a global audience.
Conclusion
William Odell Hughes is a compelling artist whose work is steeped in the rich traditions of Motown while also pushing creative boundaries. With a focus on emotional storytelling and an ear for innovative sound, he is poised to make significant contributions to the contemporary music landscape. As he continues to evolve, fans eagerly anticipate what he has in store next.
FAQs
1. Where can I find William Odell Hughes’ music?
You can listen to William Odell Hughes on platforms like YouTube, SoundCloud, Facebook, and Spotify.
2. What is the theme of ‘Loving You Was Easy’?
The song captures a lighthearted and relaxed vibe, making it perfect for summer enjoyment.
3. Are there any upcoming projects from William Odell Hughes?
While he has plans for future projects, the specifics will depend on public interest and support from the music industry.
4. How does Hughes approach vocal experimentation in his music?
He often engages in a trial-and-error method when layering backing vocals, ensuring they complement the lead vocal effectively.
