In this interview spotlight, I chat with Hugh Morrison about his latest project (The Other Side), challenges, technology and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Where are you from and what style of music do you create? 

Well hello! Thanks for asking me these great questions 🙂 I’m from Scotland originally and now I’m based in the USA. Mainly I write songs in the Folk/Rock genre. Definitely with a hint of Celtic.

Here’s a short bio from my CDBABY artist page where all my releases can be found…

”Scottish-born Hugh Morrison is based in Houston,Texas. He plays and sings in a range of musical styles, but primarily Celtic/Rock. His main gig is lead singer with Murder the Stout who tour and perform at many festivals across the USA. Also, Morrison plays many solo gigs and guests with touring bands when his schedule allows. His main instruments are guitar and squeezebox. “

What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?

I love to write new songs, my new album has 10 originals out of a total of 12 songs. I love to see the progression from first just a melody or progression idea in my head to the finished song becoming a full blown piece of work, recorded, mixed and finally mastered.

Coming from Scotland the influences from my homeland can be heard throughout. I have also enjoy folk/rock music too. Bands like The Waterboys (UK) The Pogues (UK) Steve Earl (USA) are just some of my influences.

How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?

I’m currently working in New Orleans and surrounded by many of the finest musicians in the State of Louisiana. I had a review done recently by New Orleans DJ, Mark Tobler, I think his words will help answer this question….

“Hugh masterfully weds Scottish traditional folk sensibilities with contemporary sounds from South Louisiana to create a unique and sublime set of music on his latest release, The Other Side. His story telling is smart and heartfelt whether he’s singing about hopelessness on “Edge of The World”, reminding us to enjoy every moment with the ones around us because “Life Can Be Short”, or reassuring us that “Everything’s Gonna Be OK”. A stellar set of work!

Mark Tobler
Americana Music Director, WTUL 91.5FM, New Orleans” 

Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?

Definitely my music has been able to go to a much wider audience in this digital music age. Although I’ve seen CD sales drop significantly but still there’s a market for hardcore fans that like product at festivals and shows.

What was the last song you listened to?

Knockin on Heavens Door by Bob Dylan. Great song and great songwriter, someone as a songwriter we can all aspire to!

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

Vinyl or CD’s (Old School :))

How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why? 

I like discovering new artists of similar genre on spotify. I do use BandCamp too, nice tool for indie musicians…

Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?

As mentioned above  CDBABY and BANDCAMP also SPOTIFY , socially INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK  and TWITTER

Anything else before we sign off?

No I don’t think so, I’d be delighted if folks took the time if they can and check out my new album ‘The Other Side’ and keep supporting ALL indie musicians!