West Coast Songwriters Spotlight Showcase

CHRISTIE HUFF

KARL MCHUGH

Karl McHugh’s folk/rock songwriting is a fusion of his upbringing in Donegal, Ireland and his current home in the San Francisco Bay Area. The retro-style folk music falls somewhere between the purview of Paul Simon and CCR, evoking a house party singalong vibe: fun, warm, inclusive, and good for a laugh!
Growing up, Karl had the advantage of having the family business, a video rental store, attached to his childhood home. Movies were easily accessible and from a young age, Karl eagerly helped out around the store. With a natural appreciation for stories and films, Karl frequently discussed new releases with customers and suggested titles tailored to their individual preferences. This passion for movies has inspired the first single from his upcoming EP, “In The Movies”. The song explores the gap between what films portray and real life.
Karl’s previous Easy Life EP contains deeply personal songs inspired by his struggle with US immigration. In particular, the track “No One Told Me About You”, which documents his journey from Ireland to America, was recently featured on USA Network’s hit series “Temptation Island.” His single “Keep Dreamin’ ” – written as part of his Patreon Song Series – was awarded the prestigious Outstanding Achievement in Songwriting award at The Great American Songwriting Contest.
His music continues to be widely recognised, appearing on several national TV shows and ad campaigns across both the United States and Ireland. Most recently, he composed the music for ‘The Pennsylvanian,’ a play by Jennifer Roberts.

SOPHIA DION 

Sophia Dion, a rising star in the music industry, aspires to connect with an audience that can grow alongside her. Her unique voice and style blend pop, alternative, country, and soul, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of artists. Notably, Sophia has shared the stage with legendary figures like Michael Bolton, Mac Davis, Dave Mason, John Oates. Beyond performing, her talent extends to writing for various genres and contributing to projects for TV and film, with placements in commercials, Netflix shows, and Reba McEntire’s THE HAMMER on Lifetime.

ADREA CASTIANO

Adrea Castiano, an award-winning singer-songwriter, intricately fuses the soul of vintage country and Americana with the rebellious spirit of 90’s alternative rock and the indie pop ethos, crafting a wistfully nostalgic sound that is unequivocally hers. Her artistry, a testament to cleverly woven melodies and haunting lyrical poignancy, permeates the airwaves of Hulu and Peacock, resonating in commercials and collaborative ventures with visionary producers. Adrea has found her creative haven in the lively musical epicenter that is Nashville, TN, as she embarks on recording her debut album.

AUDREY MCGRAW

Audrey McGraw is an Americana singer/songwriter who splits her time between Nashville and Los Angeles. Her unique sound mirrors that of an old soul which is not only inspires her music, but also creates the tone for her sultry vocals which resonate from deep inside. Growing up in music industry, Audrey is no stranger to hard work and expressing her creativity. She is currently writing and curating her first album for release.