Singer-songwriter and pianist Hugo Valentine delivers smooth vocals and emotive lyricism in his glowing new single and final offering of the year. The pop-rock single delves into subjects of childhood nostalgia and the difficulties of adulthood, carried across an irresistible piano-led melody and powerful percussion. Although the track was penned several years ago, it still harbours the same meaning to Hugo now as it did then.
Hugo explains: “In a rare situation for me, they [the lyrics] came pretty much immediately, with coherent meaning. I think the message for me was clear from the outset – grow up, change, be who you want to be, but don’t forget who you really are. It sounds corny but has been such an important thread in my life, something so pertinent. I went to the studio later that day to lay down the demo. Beyond the core message of the song, it’s also a song about realising that things are not as they seemed when you were a child. It’s a moment to reflect on those childhood memories and view them from your adult self’s perspective. Most children are very impressionable, as I certainly was, but there comes with that a sort of bliss of life, a lack of knowledge and understanding of the difficulties and complexities of life – ‘Do you remember the strange days, when we were young and free’ – this feels bittersweet when you reflect on it as an adult.”
London hailing Hugo Valentine draws his musical inspiration from a plethora of talent, from artists such as Elton John and Arctic Monkeys to Tom Odell and David Bowie. ‘Change’ is Hugo’s seventh release to date, and his fourth release of 2020, with his previous releases proving a huge hit with fans and press alike, seeing sparkling reviews from notable publications including Earmilk, Cultr and FAME Magazine, as well as a following of over 20,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. Hugo’s heartfelt artistry is seriously compelling, and his vulnerability allows his listeners to connect with him through every note. We can’t wait to see what 2021 will bring for this dazzling talent.
