Hugh was an effervescent spirit. He had a wonderful way of bringing folks together with music, whether veteran or experienced musicians. His skilled guitar fingers and clear tenor were lovely to behold, whether in his own tunes or with others. He adored The Push Stars and I recall him touring with them and playing at the Hatch Shell. He will be much missed. Rest easy, Hugh. Aloha, Chiemi

The Kirkland, your gig... many, many years ago. I was gabbing away when you started to introduce The Siren and the Sailor. You dedicated it to me and then announced, "And if she would just shut up, I could actually play it." Your light, your music, your heart... I'll carry it all forever, my beloved friend.

a wonderful guy. friend to everyone. i'm glad to have known him. so many happy years came out of the vibrant musical scene he created. thanks, hugh, i'll miss you. prayers & hugs to his family.

Rest In Peace my old friend.
I Will always remember his sparkling blue eyes, warm smile, contagious laughter, sense of humor and tremendously kind heart. Doesn't matter if you were someone that knew him now or 10-20 even 30 years ago, Hugh was the same wonderful soul as the day you met. Always easy going and laid back. Imprinted in my memory are all the gatherings at HOJO's or Bickfords with long conversations over coffee. Some of them as my friend to confide in, others simply hanging out talking about anything. Countless nights of us all clowning around in the parking lot for hours. Camping out for concert tickets which of course turned into a jam session.  Nights at the studio's, even falling asleep waiting for him and Adam to finish rehearsals. I still have the English paper we stayed up all night with Adam writing which they wouldn't let me see until it was done.  My teacher wasn't as thrilled with the masterpiece version of a delinquent Peter Rabbit with a foul mouth as they were!  all the times doing everything from practical jokes to snowball fights to just hanging at Nantasket.  So many cherished memories of my teen years with Hugh. He had a charm and seemed to soak in life all around him. Hugh was the kind of person that leaves a permanent imprint on your heart having had the pleasure of even knowing him. He will be sorely missed by many. My sincere condolences to his brother Mike, the McGowan family and Hugh's loved ones. Thank you to our friend Jill Webb for the treasured group photo that she gave as a present one Christmas. Thats how he is remembered smiling and full of life. May he Rest In Peace. 

Darlene Quinn-Gobbi

Hugh and I had been planning to create a follow-up to his 2005 The Crow's Nest album.  No idea that his health was so bad. I will seriously miss Mr. McGowan and his uncanny way of bringing out the best in the musicians who played with him.

Hugh was a passionate musician. He was instrumental when I picked up the guitar in 1999, learning to sing original songs. I played persuccion many a time on stage accompanying him on his songs. He did the same with me. There's was a strong synergy. The burren open mic was a place where I met many musicians he pioneered a  community of musicians who supported each other. RIP friend!!

Hugh was a kind warm talented funny person and an all around great friend. He always treated everyone like family and looked out for me hosting and hanging with me every single time I had it in my mind to come to Boston to play. Eventually his friendship became part of the reason to go. Hugh, you added so much to everyone’s life who knew you and you will be sorely missed. Rest easy.