Handforth music producer signs album deal with New York record label

DJ and producer Hugh Royle, known as HUGO, has teamed up with prestigious New York house and dance label, Nervous Records.

The move follows his break-out hit ‘XTC’ in July 2021, followed by ‘Heart and Soul’ and ‘Love Tape, which was aired by Sarah Story on BBC Radio 1.

Hugh, originally from Stockton Heath, said: “It was such an unbelievable feeling to have my tracks played on the radio.

“Annie Mac championed it before she left Radio 1. Pete Tong and Sarah Story also played my music.

“Listening to my tracks on the radio left me speechless.”

Music producer and DJ HUGO has won acclaim from BBC Radio 1 DJs (Image: HUGO)

House music heavyweights Patrick Topping, Schak, Jax Jones and AmyElle have also praised his work.

The 26-year-old DJ, who now lived in Handforth, took up producing during lockdown.

“This project has been two years in the making and I couldn’t be more excited,” said Hugh, who works at a public relations agency.

“I’ve always had a real passion for music and started DJing when I was at university.

“It was a hobby that is starting to turn into something big.”

Hugh, whose parents Louise and David Royle live in Stockton Heath, creates all his tracks at home.

“I have written the entire album on my laptop in my bedroom,” said Hugh.

“I pull all the different components, drums, strings and lead melodies together and mix them, with vocals singing on top of it.

“The album features and samples artists from the past and present and is a true representation of my sound.

“It is really great to have backing from this label.

“I can’t thank the Nervous team enough for trusting and believing in my vision for the record.”

Music producer HUGO thrilled to sign album deal with New York house and dance label, Nervous Records (Image: HUGO)

Andrew Salsano, general manager and head of A&R at Nervous Records said: “Nervous Records is constantly looking for and pushing new and undiscovered talent, especially in the UK.

“We have worked with HUGO since July 2021 on his track XTC and since then our relationship with Hugh has blossomed.

“We are incredibly excited to be working with him on his debut album and we’re looking forward to seeing what 2023 and onwards holds for the producer.”

The album is due out in the summer with singles released beforehand.

Hugh said: “I gig myself and try out some of the music to see the reaction.

“It would be amazing if I could do this as a career path. I’d love to up the gigging as well.”

Asked what advice he would give budding music producers, he said: “The two tips I’d offer are have patience and trust the process.

“If you believe in yourself, you will get there.”