Hughes was only 16 when he formed the Dukes of Rhythm. Although he was deeply inspired by the playing of Texas bluesmen, Lightnin' Hopkins and T-Bone Walker, he had been introduced to country western music, gospel, and balladry by his mother. Purchasing his first guitar, with $25.00 earned as a dishwasher, he assembled his fist band, the Dukes, with Copeland, Pat Peterson, Steve Washington, and Cornelius. After Washington and Cornelius were replaced by bassist Herbert Henderson and drummer James Johnson, they changed their name to the Dukes of Rhythm.
Following the breakup of the Dukes of Rhythm, Hughes worked with Little Richard's band, the Upsetters, and the Bobby Blue Bland group. He launched a solo career in 1988. ~ Craig Harris, Rovi