CHAD HUGO
As a crucial part of N.E.R.D Hugo has helped craft five innovative albums featuring bona fide bangers “Lapdance”, and “She Wants To Move”, but it's perhaps his work as part of the production team The Neptunes that's even more stellar. Bringing brave rhythm and spell-binding new melody to artists such as Jay-Z, Britney Spears, No Doubt, Beyonce, Diddy, Mary J. Blige and more, Hugo has transformed musical tastes, reset perceptions and delivered smash hit after smash hit.
Although famous for keeping a low profile, Hugo is about to step into the limelight to be inducted into The Songwriting Hall of Fame in New York. We caught up with him in his home studio to discuss his award, talk gear and - of course - get some production tips.
Whereabouts are you at right now?
I'm in my studio right now, in Virginia Beach. It's sunny. 95 degrees.
Tell us about being inducted into the songwriter's hall of fame. How does that feel?
“I've always been fascinated by robots and things when I was a kid.”
Oh, fantastic. I'm honored to be part of it. To be recognized for work in the studio and considered a songwriter for the work that I do and the contributions I've made, I'm truly grateful.
Is it true that the ceremony and award was supposed to happen in 2020?
Yeah, that's true. It's taking place in New York. I'm getting inducted alongside The Eurythmics, Annie Lennox, Dave Stewart… There's Mariah Carey… It's pretty awesome that
