Donna Hughes

Review posted in the "Highlights" Section of the April 2004 Issue of Bluegrass Unlimited

Donna Hughes is a sweet-voiced singer & songwriter who has recorded 21 original and excellent songs on this CD. Her solid contemporary bluegrass connection is evident in the names of some of the many backup musicians & singers: Adam Steffey on mandolin, Scott Vestal on banjo, Gena Britt-Tew on harmony vocals, and Greg Luck on fiddle. Luck produced this fine recording. Ms. Hughes also plays the piano, and "Selfish Heart" and "Hold On" are more in a country vein. Because they are her own compositions, the names of these songs will not be familiar, but there is some powerful material here. The opener "Where Are You Darlin'?" sets the tone. Both vocals & instrumentals are hardcore contemporary. Among the slower tunes, "Almost Home" is a softer ballad with a haunting chorus, which stands out as her best composition. "When Love Comes Back Again" is also a keeper. Two or three wonderful songs among 20 or so good ones is not a bad track record at all. Donna Hughes has a large contribution to make, and she has already begun to make it.

Many thanks for sending us a copy of your masterpiece, "Same Old Me." Twenty one stellar originals, propelled by some of the best in bluegrass, sung by one of the most passionate and beautiful singers in the genre - I'm in high lonesome heaven! "Same Old Me" is one of the most compelling, captivating, exciting, musically interesting, hard-drivingest, gorgeous projects I've heard in many years. Your writing is of the highest caliber - thought-provoking, unforgettable and melodically unforgettable. I was blown away by such tunes as "Haunted," "Chrystal's Song," "I Can't Win For Losin'," "Wishes" and "Little Bluebird." Clay Jones plays some of the best guitar I've ever heard; in fact, all the boys more than rise to the occasion. And your piano playing on "Selfish Heart" and "Hold On" was simply stunning - the sound you get on those tunes with Greg Luck on fiddle was just wonderful. Thanks again for the amazing tunes. I'll be doing my best to help spread the word here in Nashville and in our other syndicated outlets."
Dave Higgs
Bluegrass Breakdown
Nashville Public Radio

January Issue of: CALIFORNIA BLUEGRASS BREAKDOWN
California Bluegrass Association
By: Brenda Hough
This is a monumental collection of 21 songs with the backing of top instrumentalists like Adam Steffey on mandolin, Scott Vestal on banjo, Clay Jones on guitar, Zak McLamb on bass, Greg Luck on fiddle and several other musicians and singers. Donna Hughes has managed to capture a great collection of dreams and memories with glimpses into life and love. The band gives a steady pulsating rhythm to the music and the insistent banjo pushes the beat and gives the songs a special bluegrass flavor. Donna's songs assume the role of storyteller as she turns pages in the lives of the town alcoholic, the searchers for love around the corner and the drifters searching for love down the next highway. "Chrystal's Song" is perhaps
the most touching with its tale of the daughter remembering her farmer father while she travels in quest of a music career. "My Poor Old Heart" is the lament of soul lost while searching for love and happiness. "Where Are You Darlin" has a lovely wistful quality. Donna's voice wraps around the lyrics and pulls the listener into her world. A songwriter's skill improves with more living and loving and Donna has a wonderful start into a career certain to span many years to come.
~California BG Association Website~

The health and vitality of bluegrass music are dependent upon more than the gifted musicians through which the music flows. Of equal value are songwriters bringing the tradition into the present day with new compositions of timeless quality. Donna Hughes is that rare bluegrass performer who writes and sings with distinction.

Same Old Me is the follow-up to Donna’s 2001 debut, Somewhere In Time, also released on her own Running Dog label. With 21 tracks and more than an hour of music, Same Old Me could have easily been packaged as two separate projects. Instead, this prolific songwriter chose to share this highly personal glimpse into themes such as love, faith, family, and small-town rural life as one impressive body of work.

The framework around which these songs are structured is provided by a first-rate band able to complement perfectly Donna Hughes’ innovative arrangements and melodies. Adam Steffey, Greg Luck, Clay Jones, Scott Vestal and Gena Britt are just a few of the musicians lending their talents to this recording gem.

Within a field of material too strong to yield any single highlight, you’ll find "Never Gonna Change," with its righteously indignant tone, born of heartbreak fully realized. "Almost Home" recounts a human experience to which all listeners can relate as it deals in a very personal way with the love that sustains us through life. "Haunted" is a poignant snapshot of the suffering endured within lives affected by alcoholism and the title track’s rhythmic romp through youthful memories constitutes an aural pleasure.

Same Old Me is a testament to the unparalleled depth and power of Donna Hughes’ song writing abilities and sumptuous alto, both rife with North Carolina native southern soul. (CAF)

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A letter from a fan:
Hello Donna:
I received a copy of your cd "Same Old Me" from Kathi Fox at Spacegrass Productions. I had never heard of you before and so while I was cutting mat-boards (I'm a professional landscape and wildlife photographer) I gave your disc a whirl. I listened to your cd three times in a row and I must tell you WOW!!!!! Your voice is lovely, the instrumentation is superb and your lyrics and style are heartfelt and beautiful. I don't usually write things like this to artists, but your music compelled me to write and say that I feel you have a great great gift.

Now in my musical book, Tony Rice is one one of the greatest American artists in ANY genre of music. If he called you out of the blue and said he wanted to produce your next album, well that is the greatest endorsement any acoustic based musician could ever receive. If real success were based on actual talent in this country, Tony Rice would be one the richest musicians on the planet. Did you see him and Alison Krauss and the rest of the gang on the CMT Flameworthy awards? They were the REAL musicians on that show. Most of the others are entertainers and there is a huge difference.

I write all of this to you because you seem to be near a critical juncture in a musical career. I wish you only the best luck in achieving what YOU want to achieve. I look forward to the release of your next album and will buy it immediately and I will tell all my friends about you. We actually have a few pickers around here in Yosemite who like and appreciate good bluegrass. With Tony Rice on board, I'm sure your next project will be an immense artistical success. You are are an incredible singer-songwriter. I loved your cd and I just wanted to let you I thought so. I hope your next project will be
more of the "Same Old You"

Donna!! Love the C.D.!! I am on the air right now, featuring the whole album this week on KLOH in Pipestone, MN. I agree with everybody else..every song is great! You are one very talented lady! I honestly can't pick one song over another, I've never run across that in 30 years of radio! Best of luck! You deserve a ton of success, and I'm trying to help! Mylan Ray ~ KLOH radio - Minnesota

The song "Same Old Me" was in the top 20 for December, 2003 & January, 2004 on WGLT / Acoustic City, Illinois State University Radio ~ Available on Sunday nights from 8-12pm Central time at: www.WGLT.org

"Thanks for the very fine CD, SAME OLD ME. I have played several tracks and will continue to play 8 that I picked out. My favorite one is Chrystal's Song. These are all very well written and beautifully performed songs. Wishing you much success."
Bill Lee, WMTN Radio, Morristown, TN

"What a blockbuster!! I just knew this CD would be good, but it turned out to be GREAT! My listeners signaled their enthusiasm by keeping the request line constantly ringing throughout the entire CD. I would call this CD "easy listening bluegrass." It had all the usual instruments played by many of the top musicians in this field, but the voice of Donna Hughes overshadowed them all. Her voice changes several times within this project. It is sweet, delicate, strong, & soulful accompanied with a wide range of emotions. Most CD's are somewhat predictable, but this one was the exception. You never knew what was coming, which raised the level of anticipation for the next song. Hearing this CD once wasn't enough. It needs to be heard several times in order to fully appreciate Donna's fine voice & the lyrics of each song. Although I had never heard any of these songs before I enjoyed them all. They seem to grow on you the more you listen to them. Donna Hughes is not just another female bluegrass singer, she has her own distinctive sound. Each and every song was requested to be played again. I know that I will be playing the entire CD in the weeks to come. I hope I don't wear it out. Thank you very much for sharing this project with us." Al Shusterman KCBL/BackRoads Bluegrass Sacramento, CA

"Your songwriting is strong, your cast of musicians top notch and your vocal delivery superb. This is an excellent record and we will be putting it into rotation on Sirius Radio and Into The Blue immediately." Terry Herd Bluegrass Radio Network Nashville, TN www.BluegrassRadio.com

"It arrived about a week ago and I just had my first listen. It should get started in our acoustic rotation in about 2 weeks. It's great to have such fine new songs entering into the world of bluegrass. Among all those 21 songs, I just love 'When Love Comes Back Again", especially the interaction of voice with fiddle. Congrats to Donna for a fine CD. Thanks for your support." John Roths - Music Director - KEOS 89.1 FM College Station, TX 77841

"Wow! You must give this new, young artist a listen. Not only does she deliver some outstanding performances on the 21 songs on this CD but she has written and arranged them all. Displaying amazing talent, she also chose some great musicians to showcase her music -- among them, Adam Steffey on mandolin, Scott Vestal on banjo and Gena Britt doing harmony vocals. Another great talent from North Carolina, we've chosen a few of her songs to demonstrate her abilities -- "Where Are You Darlin'", "Same Old Me", "What I'm Looking For" and "Hold On". We think you'll agree -- this recording presents great music by an upcoming bright Bluegrass star!" Bill Gamble - Americana Music Place www.GoAmericana.com

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"Another talented bluegrass artist is on the scene. The new album, Same Old Me is a collection of 21 great and original bluegrass songs by Donna Hughes. Hughes wrote all the songs on the new "Running Dog Records" release. " Bob Cherry, www.Cybergrass.com

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"Donna Hughes is a gifted singer/songwriter of the first order. A voice and songs such as hers are a rare find. The beauty of her latest project, Same Old Me, is that each song is just as good as the next, all worthy of airplay. I'll eventually end-up playing each and every track on my show, no doubt about it. Fact is, Im beginning to wonder if this puppy will ever come out of my CD player again!" Cary Allen Fields, Staff Writer, Bluegrass NOW Magazine - Fields Of Bluegrass Radio Hour- WICR 88.7 FM Indianapolis

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"Talk about IMPRESSIVE! This one FINE project that I'm sure you are very proud of! The simple fact that you have 21 original tunes is quite an accomplishment all in itself. I see SOOOOOOOOOO many projects come across the desk that are vocally and instrumentally excellent, but lack originality. This is where you are like a shining nova. It is just icing on the cake that you have chosen such high caliber players to bring your words to life. I am going to review the project in the October Acoustica, and I am certain that you will be well pleased. It's very easy to write about an artist and their music when it's as excellent as this project is." Jerry Paul, Editor, Acoustica Magazine, North Vernon, IN

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National Traditional Country Music Assoc. Publication/January-February 2004
"Donna wrote all the songs on this terrific acoustic music CD. Part bluegrass, part traditional country, part pop-country, this is one fine piece of work. It's sort of one long story with all the feelings, the hurt, the promise, the memories, the love, the dreams, the breaking heart, and the hurting lonesome feelings, and certainly the return of love. Donna Hughes is on the threshold of fame. Rhonda Vincent will be soon looking for some fine bluegrass songs written for and by a female. Donna has all her songs ready for her. Donna, you certainly would be a welcome act at our annual festival. Mark you calendar for Aug. 30-Sep. 5, 2004, Missouri Valley, Iowa. Come share your songs, your music you! I know the people that come and they would love you! So will everyone that hears this CD. ....................I can see lots of incredibly good things happening for you Donna Hughes." Bob Everhart, IA- National Traditional Country Music Magazine

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I once interviewed many of the best known bluegrass writers in the 1980s and concluded that almost anyone can write songs, but very few can write hit songs. You must have certain degree of creativity, inspiration and motivation within yourself to be successful. Donna Hughes, from central North Carolina, gives us a crisp mix of 21 originals on this 68-minute release. Some of her songs have the potential to become contemporary bluegrass or folk genre hits. Although classically trained on piano, Hughes has a deep fondness for bluegrass music and has performed with regional bands, Wildwood and Different Directions. Hughes capitalizes on her bluegrass foundation to adorn her presentation with modern perception and awareness. This project's breezy singing, with first-rate accompaniment, will reinforce her position as an enchanting artist with a great deal of charm.

Hughes writes and sings her introspective songs with a relaxed, refreshing, contemporary flair in a style not dissimilar to that of Alison Krauss, Jeanette Williams, Valerie Smith, Dale Ann Bradley and Nickel Creek. Familiar themes of relationships, rambling around, perils of drink, heading home, and motherly love are covered. Sometimes her melodies and messages seem a tad alike and trite, especially with her many references to heart sank dreams. The album's opener "Where Are You Darlin'?" is a tale of anguish in which she sings, "Along with all my dreams/I can't go on, I can't go back." "Almost Home" states "I'll be waiting for the day and I'll be dreaming of your face." Happiness and love only appearing in dreams is the subject of "A Dream." Her song, "Memories and Dreams," is a tribute to the favorite things she's taken away from home. "With You" speaks of her desire to dream with her lover, when the moon is high. Even her song, "Lost," about a man who's down on his luck makes references to his possibly having dreams to chase, but at the same time having no one to stand behind them. There are even more references to the heart in Hughes' songs. Of the 21 offerings on this project, my choice for standout tracks include the uptempo "Little Bluebird," 6-minute jammer "Same Old Me" about her "crazy, young, wild and free" side, expressive "With You," and balladic "Chrystal's Song." A nice showcase for her piano playing is "Selfish Heart," arranged sparsely without any banjo or mandolin.

Hughes trumps other singer/songwriter projects by featuring some excellent guest musicians: Adam Steffey, Alan Perdue, Scott Vestal, Clay Jones, Ashby Frank, Greg Luck, Zak McLamb, Kevin Richardson and Joey Cox. "Memories and Dreams" and "I Can't Win For Losin'" are sung solo, and the other nineteen songs offer duo or trio choruses with nicely-blended harmonies by Gena Britt, Greg Luck and Kevin Richardson. Many of the accompanists are bluegrass veterans with years of award-winning experience under their belts.

A couple others (like Ashby Frank, a two-time winner in the mandolin contest at Galax, Va., and Joey Cox, current banjo- player with "Blue Ridge") are young friends who are building strong reputations for themselves as professional musicians. All of the pickers contribute strongly to the arrangements, and except for a few instances (e.g. "Where Are You Darlin'?" with a little more banjo and mandolin in the mix than I preferred) keep their chops, licks and fills subordinate to Donna's wistful vocals. I evaluated a preview copy of this all-original album, and I hope that final project, when released, includes the lyrics within the CD's jacket.

Songwriting is hard work, and only with a good deal of practice will one become comfortable doing it. As a craft, it can be learned. As a form of communication, a person must master the styles, ways and methods to say exactly what is felt within one's soul. With over 100 self-penned songs, the prolific Donna Hughes clearly has a lot of talent and aptitude in the songwriting arena. Certainly, some songs seem to work better than others, and everyone will have their favorites on a fairly lengthy project such as "Same Old Me." I encourage you to pick up this CD to discover which melodies and lyrics are most meaningful and expressive to you. Get a copy to enjoy some of the new distinctive bluegrass sounds from North Carolina and to share Donna Hughes' reflections, thoughts, and sentiments in song." Joe Ross ~ Northwest Bluegrass
www.CountryReview.com

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WNCW TOP 100 & STAFF TOP 10s OF 2003 ~ 12/29/2003
KIM CLARK'S TOP 10 OF 2003

1. JAYHAWKS - Rainy Day Music
2. JIM LAUDERDALE & DONNA THE BUFFALO - Wait Til Spring
3. MALCOLM HOLCOMBE - Another Wisdom
4. JOE JACKSON - Volume 4
5. JOAN BAEZ - Dark Chords On A Big Guitar
6. ROSEANNE CASH - Rules Of Travel
7. DAVID CHILDERS & THE MODERN DON JUANS - Room 23
8. KATE CAMPBELL - Twang On A Wire
9. JIM BIANCO - Well Within Reason
10. DONNA HUGHES - Same Old Me

If the other songs are like this one, then Donna and the group have a big CD! Bob Newton, WDAP, McKenzie, TN

I like her whole album. She’’s a good songwriter. Orin Friesen, KFDI, Benton, KS

One of the most gifted artists who deserves more attention. Ted Clark, JRR International Shortwave

Nice. I’ve been playing her new CD quite a bit. John Roths, KEOS, College Station, TX

Best song on this Prime Cuts. Excellent vocals!! More!! Karen Hayden, KHGQ, Qunicy, CA

This is a good cut. Good vocals and music. Will air. Jim Taylor, WNOI, Flora, IL

Great song from a great album. I’’ve played a Donna Hughes’’ song every week since I got it! Scott Spiller, KALP, Alpine, TX

Fine new release filled with good material. High production values. Marshall Andrews, KSBR, San Juan Capistrano, CA

One of our more popular new artists at KGLT on the bluegrass and Americana shows. Very nice, indeed. Thanks! Rik James, KGLT, Bozeman,
MT

I love Donna and Donna’s voice. Send CDs. Ed Stiner, WJFC/WCTU, New Market, TN

Donna is quickly emerging as one of the premiere female bluegrass artists today. Joe Wills, WBZC, Brick, NJ
Wow! Great! Bill Hazel, 4DDB.FM, AUSTRALIA

Best track on Prime Cuts CD! Great, heartfelt singing. Comes over really well. Graham Hassall, Radio Nightingale, ENGLAND

Have aired this as an e-mail request for Donna Hughes. The whole project is great! Sandra Quam, KSER, Vashon, WA

Fine voice, nice song. I like the rest of the project, too. Lance Kinney, WUAL, Tuscaloosa, AL

Very programmable material. Should help establish this artist. Hedley Charles, Coastal.FM, AUSTRALIA

Appealing lead and harmonies handle beautifully and tastefully a song whose subject matter, if written by one with less skill, would lapse into the maudlin. Janice McLaughlin, WMUB, Oxford, OH

Donna is one of the top songwriters today and she has the voice to deliver her well constructed lyrics in a captivating fashion. Wayne Bledsoe,
KUMR, Rolla, MO

Nice composition and pleasant vocals. Ross Harvey, CKUT Radio McGill, CANADA

Wow! What a wonderful surprise. Her whole project is very good. Rich Baker, WOSU, Columbus, OH

Interesting story song to a routine melody. Nice harmony. Would like entire CD. Bill Knowlton, WCNY / WUNY / WJNY, Liverpool, NY

Very emotional cut. Good feeling in Donna’’s singing. Fine ballad. Eddie Russell, The Country Eastern Radio Show, Columbus, TX

Donna has a wonderful voice. Would love to hear more. Wilson Moore, CHMA, CANADA

Donna is “star” material. Very excellent vocalist. Mylan Ray, KLOH, Pipestone, MN

Very nice country ballad. Donna has a pretty voice. Dennis Brunnenmeyer, KVMR, Grass Valley, CA

Beautiful voice. Good simple instrumentation, done well! Sweet lyrics. Very emotional effect! Will be played. Luke Howell, WHEO, Stuart, VA

Have been playing Donna’’s music every show since receiving “Same Old Me”. Outstanding! Cary Allen Fields, WICR, Fishers, IN

What can I say? “Chrystal’s Song” is a beautiful listening journey. Maurice Kurtz, Valley FM, AUSTRALIA

Hughes has been a great discovery. She’s a strong songwriter, a fine vocalist and has assembled great pickers to accompany her. Her album is a delight. Steve Winters, WSHU/WSUF, Fairfield, CT

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The Bluegrass CD "Somewhere In Time" introduces Donna Hughes & friends to the bluegrass world, and, if like myself you have not heard of Donna Hughes, you will be pleasantly surprised. The CD includes some notable original material, as well as a few familiar tunes, that are all done with style and professionalism seldom found on "first releases." In addition to excellent vocals, Donna demonstrates her highly commendable songwriting talents on this album with nine originals. Some of her songs speak of love & heartbreak while others tell stories about family & life. The title cut, "Somewhere In Time," a Donna Hughes original, kicks off the album with a solid bluegrass sound. Another I enjoyed, simply entitled "Johnny," tells the story of Donna's great grandfather, John Hughes, the county sheriff (at the turn of the century) and a colorful character. Other songs include the gospel favorite "Farther Along," and arousing arrangement of the classic "Uncloudy Day." Another highlight is the old Flatt & Scruggs song "God Loves His Children." On this cut, Boyd Hulin does the lead vocal with Donna & others in on the harmony. Another nice touch is the fine lead guitar work of William Britt. Somewhere In Time, a fine CD from a fresh new talent, brings Donna Hughes out of the shadows and will probably garner her a bevy of new fans. Her vocals are refreshingly clear, harmonies are done with an ease and clarity that only comes from equally talented backup musicians. This CD, a well-done project, will compliment most any bluegrass lovers' music library.
Bluegrass NOW Magazine, February 2002 By: Johnny Pearce

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Every so often an artist will seem to come out of nowhere, and the only question to be asked is why it took so long. Donna Hughes is just such a talent, and it’s a safe bet that her debut CD, Somewhere In Time, will catch you by surprise. Recorded at Greg Luck’s Riverside Audio in North Carolina, Somewhere In Time frames Hughes’ plaintive vocals with backing by her friends, including some of the area’s best-known and most gifted musicians; familiar names include Luck (J. D. Crowe & The New South), Gena Britt (New Vintage, Lou Reid & Carolina), Johnny Dowdle (Mountain Heart), Kim Gardner (Rambler’s Choice), Jeff Davis (New Reflections) and more. Yet what marks this album as something special, beyond the first-rate musicianship and the depth of feeling in Donna’s mournful alto, is its material. Donna Hughes’ songs speak of love, heartbreak, family and faith with memorable melodies and well-polished lyrics that can stand next to the best that contemporary bluegrass has to offer, just as they fit comfortably here with songs from the Beatles, Merle Haggard, the Dillards and Flatt & Scruggs.

Born and raised on a small farm in central North Carolina, Donna Hughes has worked as a teacher, gymnastics coach and real estate agent. Though she began playing piano as a child, her first love is singing, for which she has won awards at local fiddler’s conventions. Taking up the guitar as her interest in bluegrass developed, Donna has performed with regional bluegrass bands, including Wildwood and Different Directions, while developing her songwriting skills after being inspired to set one of her poems (“Simple Man”) to original music.

Now, with the release of Somewhere In Time on her own Running Dog Records label, Donna Hughes talents can begin to reach a wider audience. For listeners in search of meaningful, finely-crafted songs that address timeless themes in a contemporary, yet solidly bluegrass musical vein, here is an album that answers the call with elegance, grace and an abundance of talent. By: Jon Weisberger

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North Carolinian Donna Hughes has a very pleasant voice & singing style that is well-suited to contemporary bluegrass & gospel music. I'm certain that we'll be hearing more from this young lady who is also a good songwriter. For this 15-song project, she assembled some accomplished young musicians. Harmony vocals are quite ably handled. Her self penned title cut, "Somewhere In Time," is a love-gone-bad" song that is deserving of more national airplay. The second track on this album, "Loser," is also an original that has a very similar feel to the opening cut. Hughes' song "Johnny," is a tribute to her great grandfather who served 2 terms as Sheriff of her native county at the turn of the century. The band ably covers Lennon & McCartney's "Yesterday." A straight-ahead bluegrass sound characterizes her originals, "In This Prison," and "Rainbow's End." "Farther Along," "Unclouded Day," and "God Loves His Children" are three gospel offerings on the album. This album has a real nice feeling and is a wonderful showcase for Donna Hughes' singing & songwriting skills. Her vocal style is distinctive. Her songs cover traditional themes, yet have a new, fresh sound. Her talented accompanists are first-rate musicians. HeR debut album is one that you should pick up and add to your collection.
Published by Joe Ross
NW Bluegrass

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"This lady has a superb voice! Instrumental breaks are captivating, and the songs reflect a new artist with a very promising future. I look forward to hearing more from Donna." Wayne Bledsoe, KUMR, Rolla, Missouri

"This has been one of my favorites since I first heard it. Very nice flow to it. Donna does a great job with it. I love her voice!" Jerry Paul, WJCP, North Vernon, Indiana.

"Have received many requests for airplay." Bob Dunn, WDBX, Harrisburg, Illinois

"Thanks again for the great record, really exceptional!" Mark Hauser, WNCS, Burlington/Montpelier, VT

"Somewhere In Time: "Well crafted song. In this case, the songwriter also sings it well. Complimented nicely by Gena's voice. Very Tasteful instrumentation." Janice McLaughlin, WMUB, Oxford, OH

"Clear , sad, touching. I've had Donna in my Top 10 list. Did I forget sweet? Donna's voice sticks with me." - Joe & Dora Wills, WBZC, Bricktown, New Jersey

"Attractive voice, smooth arrangements." Buck Buckner, KGNU Radio, Boulder, Colorado

"Vocals blend really good........I think this group is wonderful." Annette McGhee, WRFG, Marietta, Georgia

"Nice groove on this......I especially like the fact that there are lots of original songs on this CD. You really have a great sense of family, and past and connecting to future." Trudy Heffernan, KUAC, Fairbank, Alaska

"I have played several cuts off this CD!" Steve Hooks, WDVX, 88.9, Big Stone Gap, VA

"Thank you for the CD, I will feature cuts off it throughout my shows for the coming months!" Chuck Holloway, KRVM, 91.9 fm, Eugene, Oregon

"Thanks for the CD, I have played it on my program, It's very good. You should be proud, way to go." Eric Rice, KVMR fm, Nevada City, CA

"I have your CD & love it. I will play it on my show!" Nancy Longenecker, 88.5, 95.1, Pemberton, NJ

"I received your CD & play it frequently on my show. Wonderful CD, keep making good music. Carl Goldstein, WVUD, Newark, DE

"We have been using this CD on the 'Afternoon Bluegrass Show' with great response. Now that's one refreshing CD, and our hats off to Donna for bringing this great bluegrass to us. All That we ask is Miss Hughes keeps it up!" Willis Walker, WJFC, Jefferson City, TN

"You are going places. You have a great personality and I wish you the best in your music. Thanks for the live phone interview........" Terry Thacker, WAWK, Kendalville, IN

"I've been a bluegrass fan for about 27 years, and I was very impressed with your music. Your choice of musicians is very impressive, and if you don't do a lot more of this, the world of bluegrass will be cheated! Keep up the good work, and I will personally air your album to our devoted audience on Sundays!" Bob Knight, WUNH, NH

"Hey Donna, I just wanted to let you know I received your CD, and it is a very well-done project. You are a fine singer & songwriter, and have surrounded yourself with some great talent. We are giving it airplay in the middle Tennessee area!" Mark Dyer, WANT FM, 98.9, TN

"Somewhere In Time": "I really like this tune! She does a great job My hat is off to you for a great project!" Ed Stiner, WJFC/WCTU, New Market, TN

"Donna does a good job on this........It has a very good bluegrass sound." Jim Taylor, WNOI, Flora, IL

"We need to hear more from this lady.....great writer and singer!" Laurie Mills, Laurie Mills Enterprises, CALGARY, Canada

"I have played many songs from this project." Frank Hoppe, KCSN, Sunland, CA

"Great voice! Looking forward to hearing Donna with her own band!" Kevin Lynch, WWUH, Hartford, CT

"Thanks for sending me your CD Donna. I have played it a lot. I like Autumn Leaves a bunch. Please remember me when your next CD is finished." Larry Roberts, WGCS, Elkhart, IN

"Nice, easy listening style, singing and music pleasant." Graham Hassall, Radio Nightingale

"Sweetly assertive voice & beautifully controlled band. Excellent!" Bryan Chalker, Radio Caroline, London, England

"Again, a crystal clear female voice in bluegrass. I love to hear that. The total of vocals, harmonies, instruments and lyrics is very pleasing. Thank you!" Jaap de Geus, Radio Spijkenisse, Bessengaard, HOLLAND

"KSER has played several cuts from this CD over the past few months." Sandra Quam, KSER, Kenmore, Washington

"Dreamy Donna vocal." Eddie Russell, The Country Eastern Radio Show, Columbus, TX

"Donna has a lot of emotion, and she delivers 'Somewhere In Time' with all of it..." Bob Newton, WDAP

Somewhere In Time: "All the ingredients of a hit. Good pipes, solid back-up, great writing and production." Gene Roberts, KDHX/KCLC, House Springs, MO

"Very strong debut from a new lady of 'grassy' music." Ted Clark, JRR International Shortwave, The Netherlands

"Somewhere In Time: "Great tune from a fine new artist." David Higgs, WPLN, Brentwood, TN

"This artist shows a great deal of promise." Phil Hodgen, KBOO/KWHT, Pendleton, Oregon

"Great harmony & pickin'! Aint that Ashby Frank tough on mandolin?" Paul Morris, WXKQ/WTCW, Webster, FL

Somewhere In Time: "Love the vocal on this cut, Donna has a really nice sound." Rik James, KGLT, Bozeman, Montana

"A nice piece of original material ably carried off with the help of a sterling cast of supporting musicians." Les McIntyre. WAMU, Fairfax, VA

Somewhere In Time: "I like this cut!" Bruce Livingstone, 3REG.FM, Victoria, Australia

"I have your album and it's very good. Have played your gospel tunes a few times. Keep up the good work." Carl Conkling, KNES

Somewhere In Time: "Great song. Great music!" Chad Yost, WELY, Eli, Minnesota

"Very nice overall. I have received emails from listeners bragging on Donna Hughes, and I must agree, she has a bright future." Bo McCarty, WSIP, Ashland, KY

"Smooth as silk and rolling along like ripples on a pond. Donna & band perform these tunes to a tee." Maurice Kurtz, Valley FM, Wannaissa, Australia

"I like this, we've been playing it for a while now." Pete Goodall, KBCS, Bellvue, Washington

"Wow! She sounds like Alison Krauss! What a band!" Bob Coate, KIOS, Omaha, Nebraska

"Excellent instrumentation." Bill Knowlton, WCNY/WJNY/WUNY, Liverpool, New York

"Her vocals are what really draw me to this selection." Craig Lammers, WBGU, Bowling Green, OH

"I like Donna's voice and would like to hear more of her." Dennis Brunnenmeyer, KVMR, Grass Valley, California

"I just premiered your new CD on my 2 hour weekly radio show which features bluegrass-&-folk music. Nice tunes, received many inquiries as to who you are. Don't forget us when your next CD is released!" F Yoder, WGCS 91.1FM, Goshen, IN

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*The cut "Somewhere In Time" was chosen for Bluegrass NOW's DJ Hot picks in October 2001 by: Jerry Paul, Radio Active Bluegrass, WJCP 92.7 FM, North Vernon, Indiana & Jerry Mills, Rocky Mountain Bluegrass, KCKK AM, Denver, Colorado *The cut "Johnny" was chosen for DJ Hotpicks in June 2001 by Big Al Weekly, KRVN/KTIC radio, Lexington, Nebraska
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Somewhere in Time" is the first recording by Donna Hughes, a North Carolina bluegrass singer/songwriter. It is a fine effort and Hughes has the promise of more to come. Possessed of a nice, though not overly strong, voice, well-suited to the material, she is also a good songwriter, having penned nine of the fifteen selections on this CD. The musicians are very good, providing lively, accurate solos and backing. The title track, "Somewhere in Time" is a reminiscence of lost love. "Loser" is the word for the former lover. "Johnny" is a poetic tribute to Hughes' great-grandfather, a two-term sheriff. How Lennon & McCartney's "Yesterday" got in here, I don't know, but it comes out OK in bluegrass form. "Southbound Train" tells of a young eloping couple. What would we do without lost love? That topic engenders another Hughes song, "Change of
Heart". A philosophical song (yes, they do occur in bluegrass), "Autumn Leaves" makes observations on those in an old cemetery. "In This Prison" the singer laments being in the prison of her lover's love. "The Rainbow's End" is a nice Hughes song looking to the future at the end of life. This whole project began with a poetic tribute to her father which she turned into "Simple Man".

Of course, no good bluegrass set is complete without some gospel songs. Hughes includes a lively "Unclouded Day", a nice "Farther Along", and Flatt & Scruggs' "God Loves His Children" with excellent lead vocal by mandolinist Boyd Hulin and harmony provided by Hughes. Hughes again teams with Hulin for Merle Haggard's sad song, "Somewhere Between". Hulin again takes lead vocal in an upbeat rendition of "Old Homeplace".

"Somewhere in Time" is an enjoyable recording with a nice variety of songs, a voice easy on the ears, and fine musicianship. It's worth the purchase and I look forward to Donna Hughes' next album.

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Donna Hughes is a family person and has filled the liner notes of this thoughtful project with pictures covering several generations of her blood. Her fifteen song line-up, nine of which she wrote, is a compendium of stories about the push and pull of human relationships, both past and present, some lacking, some fulfilled.

Her voice floats feather-like across some excellent original material, along with old favorites, all backed by a well-schooled group of musicians. Both the traditionalist and the fan who is looking for a new edge will be pleased with Somewhere In Time because Donna has artistically, and mysteriously, covered every number with both blankets. It’s hard to pull off and difficult to explain, but you will know it when you hear it. The bottom line is honest to goodness bluegrass music, written, played and sang at a high level.

Somewhere In Time is an independent production and thus can be explained best by the artist. Here’s Donna: "I think it is important to record things about your life that are important to you whether it be taking photographs, writing a song, a poem, a book or just simply writing in a journal. If we don't, we will look back one day and will have trouble remembering all the many things that have meant most to us in our lives. Life is a journey, and when we record our most precious thoughts, feelings and memories, (either by writing them in a song or poem, or video taping them as often as we can), it reminds us how we got to the point where we are, and will not let us forget our mistakes, failures, joys, triumphs and laughter we shared. The problem now is going to be that we are writing to each other every day in emails, which are quickly deleted, and rarely printed. So, when I wrote back and forth to my grandmother who lived a couple hours away for 15 years, and I have boxes of letters that I can look back and read and remember her with, if it had been email I would have nothing. We need to force ourselves to save things even though it is a lot of trouble. Lessons are better remembered if we record our mistakes, and also can help others through tough times. For example, when I wrote "Somewhere In Time," "Change of Heart," "In This Prison," and "Loser," songs about a relationship gone to the wayside, it may help others relate who are going through a loss of a relationship in a similar way.

"I enjoyed every aspect of making this CD: making the artwork, with the old pictures of my parents and grandparents when they were little, (I smile every time I see that), the picture of the old house on the back where my grandmother grew up, writing the songs, creating the music for the songs, recording them, and thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the people I have met since, and having the opportunity to record and perform with some of the finest musicians in bluegrass. I have received phone calls and emails from all over the world. It has been so rewarding, and especially when a friend is passing through Iowa and hears your songs on the radio out there, or in California, as it has happened. It is also very cool to turn the radio on and hear yourself, when you never dreamed it possible. I felt it was important to write most of my material so I couldn't be compared to what had been done previously. I wanted to do something different, and I also wanted to put something for everybody on there. There is a Beatles song for the younger crowd, a Merle Haggard tune for the country fans, some gospel for the gospel lovers, and the songs I wrote make it more memorable for my family. I thank everyone who has purchased one, and everyone who has hired us to perform. I plan to begin recording my next project sometime next year. I have already written six brand new songs for it, and I am so excited about recording them."

There you have it, folks. Did you catch that wide eyed enthusiasm, the excitement about making bluegrass music in a way that grabs fans?

I want to mention a couple of the musicians who are standouts on this top drawer production; Jeff Davis on banjo and Ashby Frank on mandolin. These two lead a fine ensemble that plays with control and perfect timing.

Bank on this. We have not heard the last of Donna Hughes. Her vocal and writing skills will jump on you quick as you listen to Somewhere In Time, and there will never be a question of getting your money’s worth (15 songs). Oh, and there are couple of surprises toward the end of the CD that I’m not about to give away. You’re going to like Donna.

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"This girl Donna Hughes is a super good singer from North Carolina and has some good musicians backing her up. Nine songs are written by Donna herself and are mostly very good. Some are a little different, but I like them all. I think anyhone listening to this cd will like it...........There are 15 good songs for you to listen to and I know you will like them, so why don't you order a copy from Donna. By: Charlie Blackwell

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There is a movement of Bluegrass music coming from western North Carolina and Southwestern Virginia. The sound is distinctive, traditional, yet contemporary without going over the edge into Newgrass. Spurred on by the likes of the Lonesome River Band, Carolina, and New Vintage, it’s a sound you know when you hear it. "Somewhere in Time" is part of that movement. Donna Hughes may be unknown to some Bluegrass fans but she certainly will not remain that way. This CD, which is self produced, was recorded at Riverside Audio in North Carolina with "cream of the crop" musicians from the North Carolina area. Supporting Hughes are contemporary musicians such as Greg Luck, Gena Britt, Ashby Frank, Kim Gardner, Johnny Dowdle and Jeff Davis. Hughes’ voice is pure and inviting, warm as the Carolina sunshine with a little Virginia moonshine thrown in for fun. Ms. Hughes seems as though she has been writing and singing professionally all her life although this is her first project.

The CD is a journey into the life and family of Donna Hughes. Listen to this CD a few times and you’ll feel like a long lost cousin being welcomed back into the fold. "Southbound Train" references the elopement of her grandmother and grandfather, their marriage and why it lasted so long. Great stuff. My personal favorite is the story of John Franklin Hughes, the two-term sheriff of Randolph County, NC. According to the lyrics, "If you tried to run from Johnny and his hound, ten days later you’d be six feet in the ground". We need more men like "Johnny". The recording itself has a warm and
rich sound, kudos to Riverside Audio. The musicianship is outstanding and the vocalists are both competent and confident. Who is better than Greg Luck on guitar, Ashby Frank on the mandolin and Kim Gardner on Resophonic Guitar? Gena Britt and Johnny Dowdle add solid bass. Gena’s sweet harmony enhances the vocal blend with perfection. Other musicians less familiar are Daniel Routh, Boyd Hulin, Crystal Sawyer, & William Britt. ... I recommend this CD become a part your collection if you love straight ahead bluegrass. By the way, Donna Hughes also sells realty in the Ashboro, NC area, just in case you’re relocating. Check out her website at www.donnahughes.com and make sure to order a copy of "Somewhere in Time". I can’t wait to hear her next project! Published in the 2002 Bluegrass Guide By the Mountain High Bluegrass Associates in the New England area