Features : Singer-songwriter Karl McHugh Juxtaposes Real Life and Movie Romance in Latest Single “In The Movies”

Singer-songwriter Karl McHugh brings rock vibes and a dash of realism to his newest single, “In The Movies,” out April 21. “In The Movies” highlights the discrepancy between movie magic and real-life experiences, combining modern melodies with thoughtful lyricism.

Fun, energetic, and quizzical, McHugh’s music entertains while adding an air of intrigue. Is there more to his single than what captivates the ear?

“In The Movies” was created as a combination of nostalgia and necessity. “I developed this song as part of the Song of the Month Club I have going on Patreon,” explains McHugh. “I was thinking about how relationships look easier in the movies. There’s a beginning, middle and a satisfying conclusion; but in real life, things don’t always pan out that way. I was raised in a video rental store that my family owned. So, I was exposed to those romcom tropes you see in films all the time and then I had to grow up and realize that life doesn’t work like that.”

McHugh has been playing the guitar since his early teens and continued to study music to post-graduate level. McHugh focused on music and media technology, immersing himself in theory and production. He also played in bands, devoting most of his time to his passion of songwriting. Following his studies, Karl McHugh went on to write music for advertisements and television in his homeland of Ireland.

 Fueled by his father’s memories of living in the Bay Area, McHugh decided to move to the U.S. and out west to the Bay Area—just three blocks from where his father once lived. It was there he joined the West Coast Songwriters, where he found a mentor, took classes, and met many other musicians, including James Devine. Together, they started the Irish-American rock group, “McHugh and Devine.” After touring and releasing an EP and album, gaining recognition in the area, the duo parted ways (but occasionally reunite for special events). Thus began McHugh’s journey as a solo artist.

His previous solo EP, Easy Life, showcases his talent and includes the “Temptation Island” featured single, “No One Told Me About You.” Another single, “Keep Dreamin’,” won the coveted Outstanding Achievement in Songwriting award at The Great American Songwriting Contest.

This year, Karl McHugh is looking forward to releasing more singles and an EP in August. He’ll also be performing in London and Ireland over the summer and looks forward to setting up shows in the Bay Area as well.

Make sure to stay connected to Karl McHugh on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts.

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