Album Review: Hugh Prestwood 'I Used To Be The Real Me'

 Over the past three decades, Hugh Prestwood has forged a career as a well-respected, in-demand songwriter. The Emmy winner (for “Trisha Yearwood’s “The Song Remembers When”), who was inducted into the Nashville Songwriter’s Hall of Fame in 2006, penned Grammy-nominated number ones for Randy Travis ("Hard Rock Bottom Of Your Heart”), Crystal Gayle ("The Sound Of Your Goodbye"), and Shenandoah ("Ghost In This House"), among many other hits. With his new record, I Used To Be The Real Me, Prestwood’s voice takes its turn front and center as he presents his own songs in his own way.

Released on November 18th, I Used To Be The Real Me was released on friend Judy Collins’ - who provided Prestwood with first hit when she recorded "Hard Times for Lovers" – label, Wildflower Records/Cleopatra Records. The thirteen-track collection consists of all original material including some songs that may sound familiar, such as “The Suit” (recorded by Jerry Douglas and James Taylor), "Laura Nadine" (Billy Dean) and “April Fool” (Colin Raye). Beginning with opening track, the wistful “So Sweet Sixteen” and carrying through to the closer, “The Song Remembers When,” the album embodies a 70’s feel that is propelled by Prestwood’s thoughtful, emotionally impactful lyricism and familiar and soothing vocals. Nestled between those bookends are songs like "Untie These Lines" and "Charlie," both of which find Collins assisting on vocals, the beautiful imagery of “Carolina Season,” and the poignant “Another Way To Feel Alive.” With I Used To Be The Real Me, Prestwood presents his take on life and love through the years with songs that allow his voice to shine as brightly as his lyrics.

 Prestwood continues to teach songwriting workshops for the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) in various locations throughout the country, and is constantly working on his next song. For more information visit his official website.

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