Lucy Fitzgerald 
Dan Hubbard’s EP “Vol 1: Letting Go” arrives with a warm, openhearted feel that pulls you in right away. The Illinois songwriter steps into his tenth studio project with a relaxed confidence that seems to come from finally permitting himself to make music without worrying about how anyone might react. He mentioned that he went into the studio planning to have fun and trust his instincts, and that easygoing spark flows through every track.
The EP brings together his natural storytelling voice with a blend of R&B, Soul, Pop, and familiar Americana roots. The mix feels smooth and inviting, giving each song its own personality while still tying everything together. It is especially cool to know that three tracks, “Remember”, “Sad Eyes”, and “Open Up”, each made it to the semifinals of the 2024 International Songwriting Competition. Hearing that makes the EP’s experience even richer, because it reflects how many sides of his writing shine here.
“Open Up” sits at the heart of the release. The song was sparked by a license plate that pushed a narrow idea, which led Hubbard to write the line, “There are more ways than there are stars in space”. That one sentence captures the spirit of the EP. It points toward openness, compassion, and a willingness to leave room for differences. The title “Letting Go” connects back to that idea, too, tying in a thought that releasing control can sometimes be an expression of love.
The closing track, “These Waters,” is one of the most personal pieces Hubbard has ever shared. It includes real audio from the day his family scattered his father-in-law’s ashes in the Pacific. Hearing his wife speak to their son in that moment gives the song a tenderness that stays with you. It makes the EP’s ending feel grounded, emotional, and honest in a quiet way. From my own perspective, the songs felt grounded and sincere, and the storytelling connected with me right away. I also enjoyed how the different influences blended together without feeling crowded.
If you love music that feels personal without being heavy, make time for “Vol 1: Letting Go”. Follow Dan Hubbard, stay connected for new updates, and add the tracks to your playlists so they can travel with you long after the first listen. His Letting Go Tour began in November 2025, and this EP feels like the perfect way to step into that next chapter.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
