Spend Tonight with Hannah Hughes
Mustard had the pleasure of speaking again with Hannah Hughes who just released their newest single "Tonite" which is out now on all platforms!
This interview took place prior to the release of “Tonite.”
You can read our first interview together here.
Mustard had the pleasure of speaking again with Hannah Hughes who just released their newest single "Tonite" which is out now on all platforms! Additionally we talked about her favorite instrument, visiting New York, DEVO, and so much more!
1. Mustard is grateful and appreciative to have you join them again at On The Shelf. How are you doing today?
Thank you so much Mustard for having me and taking the time to do this interview! It is so appreciated! I am doing great, I’m looking forward to my single release show tomorrow, January 31st, live at Harvard and Stone
2. When we last spoke you had just performed your first sold out show at Whisky A Go Go. How did it feel to perform in front of a sold out audience? Do you have a pre-show routine?
It felt amazing to perform to a sold out audience. Especially at a venue like the Whisky a Go Go with so much history, it was truly an honor. One of the best nights! Before any show I like to meditate for about 10 minutes. Afterwards while I get myself ready, I like to prioritize my mental focus on 3 key things: putting on a good show, performing and looking my best, and being present in the moment. No distractions is key!
3. Growing up you thought you wanted to play trumpet. Mustard wonders if you have gotten the opportunity to do so?
Trumpet was my first instrument that I played for 12 years. I was in my high school's competitive marching band as well as jazz band. My high school's music program was considered one of the best in New York State. The daily training was extremely disciplined. To this day I credit the Huntington Blue Devil marching band for my work ethic in music!
4. You mentioned that your favorite instrument is the guitar. What sets the guitar apart from other instruments for you?
Guitar is the instrument that I naturally connected with and developed a strong connection to. It has taken me to where I am now.
5. Mustard was wondering if you could share more about how the LA music scene feels like a community? How does everyone within the scene help and support each other?
One of the reasons I moved to Los Angeles is because of the vibrant music community here! Everyone is playing music, in a band, producing, or taking part in some form artistic endeavor.
6. You can take the girl out of New York but you can't take the New York out of the girl. What are some things about you that are distinctively New York?
It's true! It's where I grew up, so I'd say my street style and knowledge of where to get a truly good bagel!
7. Last July while visiting New York you heard your music on the radio for the first time. What kind of emotions were you feeling hearing your song played on WHC 90.3?
It was an incredible experience that I have dreamed of since I was little listening to Z100. I felt true happiness and joy.
8. In October you had the opportunity to meet the band that changed your life, DEVO. Could you share more about your connection with DEVO? Were you nervous to meet DEVO?
DEVO is one of my favorite bands because of their songwriting but also their message. The de - evolution concept DEVO preaches reflects the current world we live in. The rapid rate of technology is allowing us to do less and less as humans using our brains.
9. DEVO reaches out to you and would like to collaborate on a song together. What would this song sound like? How do you approach collaborations?
The song would sound like the lovechild of DEVO and Hannah Hughes.
10. Mustard would like to wish you congratulations on your newest single "Tonite." Could you share more about your latest single?
I am typing this in my Los Angeles apartment now right now, before sunset, thinking to myself: this is the last day before I give birth to my new music child. Tomorrow is a new era. "Tonite" is being brought into the world January 31st, 2024 and I could not be more stoked!
11. Mustard has observed that the song is called "Tonite." Was it written during the night?
Yes, it was!
12. You mention in this song that you like to fly like a bird so high. What bird best represents Hannah Hughes?
A dove
13. Mustard is curious if they ended up being with you that night? How can a human overcome their shyness?
Being in touch with your authentic self. The song is about the listeners experiences.
14. For the music video you hosted the greatest backyard house show. Could you tell us more about what it was like to shoot and put this music video together?
The music video is a representation of the Los Angeles music scene. Simplicity was the inspiration behind the song. I say "Don't be shy, don't ask why, I want you to be with me tonite". Imagine being at a party, wanting someone, and wanting to let go of fear. That is what "Tonite" is about.
I am so thankful to have brought together an amazing team to make the video happen! I wanted the music video set to be as similar as possible to a real house show. So we had one. It was great. It was amazing to work with a choreographer and dancers, to help the vision come to life.
15. When we spoke last you described your live shows as serious, honest, and fun. Mustard wonders if you have any upcoming shows?
My next show is my single release January 31st 2024 at Harvard and Stone in Hollywood.
16. Mustard wonders what Hannah Hughes has planned for the remainder of 2024?
Lots of shows coming up in 2024, more of my true self expression.
17. Can readers still find your music on all streaming platforms?
My music is Hannah Hughes on all streaming platforms!