The second eldest of five brothers and one sister, Charles Stephen Hughes grew up on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois listening to all styles of music, from R&B to Gospel to Pop, with even some Country thrown in. His Aunt Flora especially influenced him to broaden his musical taste. He started his singing career in grammar school talent shows, graduating eventually to middle school and high school choruses.
As an adult, Charles Stephen collected an extensive library of of Chicago House, Electronic Dance, 80's Pop, and Gospel CD's. In the privacy of his home, he would dance and sing along to his music collection, envisioning himself on the stage. However, he kept his musical abilities confined to himself, his family and his close friends until he was given a karaoke machine one Christmas and a keyboard the next.
The karaoke machine led to his production of a limited edition CD for family and friends. The keyboard, which he taught himself to play, led to his first original compositions with his own music and lyrics.
"Love Notes" is the first CD he has released on the Independent Records label. It represents the first time he has made his music available to the general public. He has been amazed and encouraged by enthusiastic responses from all around the world. A follow-up CD entitled "The Dance" is currently in production and is scheduled for release in 2009.