Glenn Hughes on Black Country Communion 'V' & Why Joe Bonamassa is "The Greatest Rock Blues Player Alive Today" | Interview

Glenn Hughes on Black Country Communion 'V' & Why Joe Bonamassa is "The Greatest Rock Blues Player Alive Today" | Interview

As Black Country Communion release their highly anticipated fifth studio album, 'V,' (via Mascot Label Group) Guitar Interactive Magazine's Jonathan Graham presents an in-depth exclusive interview with the legendary Glenn Hughes, the band's esteemed vocalist and bassist. Hughes provides a detailed account of the band's creative process, their latest tracks, and his illustrious career. From his early years with Trapeze to his tenure with Deep Purple, collaborations with Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi, and his personal journey to sobriety, Hughes offers us some valuable insights into the life and experiences of a true rock icon as he embarks on a new chapter in his storied career.

Black Country Communion has been making waves in the hard rock scene since the band's formation in 2010. With the release of their fifth studio album, "V," the band embarks on a new chapter, packed with powerful singles, a renewed energy, and an evolution of their unmistakable sound. The celebrated supergroup features the legendary vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes, guitarist Joe Bonamassa, drummer Jason Bonham, and keyboardist Derek Sherinian; their unique blend of British blues-rock and American soul has captivated audiences worldwide, earning them critical acclaim and a loyal fan base that's ready for more.

The new record — produced by longtime collaborator Kevin Shirley —represents a significant milestone in Black Country Communion's storied career. The album's lead single, "Stay Free," was released to much anticipation, showcasing a blend of hard rock's raw energy with a heavy dose of blues, reminiscent of the likes fellow rock luminaries AC/DC and Led Zeppelin. Glenn Hughes, reflecting on the recording process, described it as a magical experience at Sunset Sound in Hollywood. "In my opinion, we had the best time recording this record. Tons of fun and it's a magical recording," Hughes shared.

The band's chemistry and camaraderie are palpable throughout the album, a sentiment echoed by producer Kevin Shirley. "When we convened in 2023 to start recording the album' V,' it really was like picking up the day after the most recent gig," Shirley recalled. "The camaraderie is immediately evident. Once they start playing, everyone is deadly serious, and the music sounds like this band, and nothing else sounds like it."

"V" not only marks the band's growth as musicians and storytellers but also reaffirms their status as rock royalty. Their return with "Stay Free" and the subsequent single "Red Sun" highlights the band's dynamic synergy and creative evolution. "Red Sun" stands out as a profound piece in the band's discography, echoing the struggles and revelations that come with life's challenges. The song's rich narrative and compelling melody are enhanced by the band's signature blend of hard rock and blues.

Joe Bonamassa, reflecting on the band's unique chemistry, noted, "This band allows me to embrace all of it. It's funny because the four musicians up here – everybody brings a certain thing to this that's very specific. Every part is irreplaceable. For me, it's about playing old-style rock guitar, loud." Derek Sherinian also credited Kevin Shirley for keeping the band's creative energies focused, adding, "We got to give Kevin Shirley massive credit because he keeps it all flowing."

The journey to "V" was not without its challenges. Hughes, who had joined The Dead Daisies in 2019, found himself unable to work outside the band due to contractual restrictions. "Joe came to me in 2019, and that's when I joined a band called The Dead Daisies. Between you and me, I had no idea when I joined The Daisies that they would not want me to do anything outside of that band," Hughes revealed. "I had to wait till I get a chance to leave The Daisies at Christmas in 2022. Joe and I had Christmas dinner, and we decided to make Number Five. It's just as simple as that."

Despite these hurdles, Hughes and Bonamassa's dedication to Black Country Communion never wavered. Their close friendship and mutual respect are the bedrock of the band's success. "Joe and I are very close. We're neighbours in LA. Joe plays with me in New York and LA, London, anytime he sees me play. And we really, really thoroughly enjoyed writing this album," Hughes shared.

The band's recent live performances, including their first U.S. show in over 11 years at the Culture Room in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and their appearance on the Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea cruise, signify an exciting new chapter for Black Country Communion and their fans. As they gear up for the release of "V," the excitement is palpable.

"V" features an array of tracks that highlight the band's diverse influences and musical prowess. The album opens with "Revolution of Sound," a hard-hitting track that sets the tone with its powerful riffs and Hughes' commanding vocals. "Cry Freedom" follows, a song that blends rock and blues with anthemic choruses that are sure to resonate with fans.

"Over My Head" showcases Bonamassa's exceptional guitar work, with inspired lead lines that soar over a solid rhythm section. "The Battle Rages On" is another standout track, featuring intricate keyboard arrangements by Sherinian and Bonham's thunderous drumming. "Wanderlust" slows the pace slightly, offering a more introspective look with soulful melodies and poignant lyrics.

The centrepiece of the album, "Red Sun," is a lyrical journey through the depths of the soul, echoing the struggles and revelations that come with life's challenges. "This band allows me to embrace all of it," comments Bonamassa. "Every part is irreplaceable. For me, it's about playing old-style rock guitar, loud."

Hughes adds, "We make music for the five of us. We make music that we love and like, hoping it registers with everyone else. We don't make it for record companies, or this guy or that guy." Sherinian credits producer Kevin Shirley for keeping the band's creative energies focused, adding, "We got to give Kevin Shirley massive credit because he controls. He keeps it all flowing."

The album continues with "Midnight Sun," a track that combines a driving beat with introspective lyrics, followed by "Long Road Home," which features a powerful vocal performance by Hughes. "Shadow King" and "Eternal Flame" close out the album, leaving listeners with a sense of both resolution and anticipation for what's next.

Glenn Hughes' illustrious career, spanning decades and numerous bands, has cemented his status as a rock icon. From his early days with Trapeze to his legendary tenure with Deep Purple and his collaboration with Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi, Hughes' influence on the rock genre is undeniable. His journey, marked by both triumphs and challenges, is a testament to his resilience and passion for music.

Reflecting on his career, Hughes shared insights into his creative process and the personal significance of his music. "I've been writing about the human condition. I don't write about fiction, about pussy and smoking cigarettes. I write about us as humans, and that's the way I write my songs," Hughes explained. "I've been sober and clean from drugs since Christmas Day, 1991, and ever since then, I've been writing about freedom, healing, and letting go."

Hughes' commitment to authenticity and emotional depth is evident in his work with Black Country Communion. His ability to channel personal experiences into powerful lyrics resonates deeply with fans. "We make music for the five of us. We make music that we love and like, hoping it registers with everyone else," Hughes emphasized. "We don't make it for record companies, or this guy or that guy."

In addition to his work with Black Country Communion, Hughes is also working on a new solo album, set to be released next year. "In between interviews today, I'm writing a new song number four. It's going really, really well," Hughes shared. "We go in the studio on June 1st, and in 19 days, the album will be finished. So I presume it'll be out next March."

With his solo career and his work with Black Country Communion, Glenn Hughes continues to be a driving force in the rock world. His dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with audiences through his music make him a true legend in the industry.

A significant part of Hughes' illustrious career has been his collaborations with some of the most talented guitarists in rock history. Reflecting on these experiences, Hughes shared fond memories and insights into what made each collaboration unique. "What a great guitar player, and what a great, kind, soulful human being," Hughes said of Joe Satriani. "I met Joe ages ago, and we played together at the Marshall 50th at Wembley. Joe asked me that day if I could play bass on an album, and of course, we did that in 2017. We've been really close friends, and I love him."

Hughes has a special admiration for his current bandmate Joe Bonamassa. "In my opinion, the greatest rock blues guitar player alive today. When you think blues rock, you think of only one, and it's Joe. Again, for me, music is one thing, but personality is another. Joseph is a genuinely good, kind man."

Hughes also reminisced about his time with the late Tommy Bolin. "After Mel Galley, Tommy was like a brother to me. When he auditioned for Deep Purple, I saw this guy with green and purple hair and whispered in his ear, 'Even if you don't get the gig, you're coming back to my house tonight.' He moved in with me, and we became the best of friends."

Of his time with Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi, Hughes shared, "Tony is a beautiful guy, very soft-spoken with a dark sense of humor. His riff writing is unparalleled. When we were working together, he'd leave me with a riff, and I'd come up with something for it. He's the greatest riff writer, and nobody is like him."

These collaborations not only highlight Hughes' versatility and adaptability but also his deep connections and mutual respect within the rock community. As he continues to create music, whether with Black Country Communion or as a solo artist, Hughes' legacy as a rock icon remains firmly intact.

Black Country Communion's latest album 'V' is out now worldwide via Mascot Label Group.

Black Country Communion' V' Tracklist:

Enlighten

Stay Free

Red Sun

Restless

Letting Go

Skyway

You're Not Alone

Love And Faith

Too Far Gone

The Open Road

For more information on Black Country Communion, please visit:

blackcountrycommunion.com