🔥 Trending Huey Lewis: What's the Latest on the 80s Music Star?

Huey Lewis, born Hugh Anthony Cregg III, is an American singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as the charismatic frontman of the hugely successful 1980s pop-rock band, Huey Lewis and the News. His distinctive, soulful voice and the band's blend of rock, pop, and rhythm and blues made them one of the most popular acts of the decade.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Huey Lewis was born on July 5, 1950, in New York City, and raised in Marin County, California. His early musical influences were diverse, ranging from rhythm and blues to folk and rock. He began playing harmonica and singing in various local bands during his youth.

Before forming Huey Lewis and the News, he was involved in several musical projects. Notably, he was a member of the band Clover in the 1970s, which released two albums and even backed Elvis Costello on his debut album, My Aim Is True [1].

Rise to Stardom with Huey Lewis and the News

In 1979, Lewis, along with keyboardist Sean Hopper, guitarist Chris Hayes, bassist Mario Cipollina, drummer Bill Gibson, and saxophonist Johnny Colla, formed Huey Lewis and the News. Their self-titled debut album was released in 1980, but it was their subsequent albums that propelled them to international fame.

Key Albums and Hits:

• Sports (1983): This album was a massive commercial success, selling over 10 million copies in the U.S. and spawning four top 10 singles: "Heart and Soul," "I Want a New Drug," "The Heart of Rock & Roll," and "If This Is It" [2]. The album's catchy melodies, tight musicianship, and Lewis's everyman charm resonated with a wide audience.
• Fore! (1986): Following the success of Sports, Fore! continued their hit streak with singles like "Stuck with You" and "Jacob's Ladder," both of which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart [3].
• Soundtrack Contributions: The band also gained significant recognition for their contributions to the 1985 blockbuster film Back to the Future. Their song "The Power of Love" was a global hit, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song [4]. Another track from the film, "Back in Time," also became a fan favorite.

Musical Style and Influence

Huey Lewis and the News were known for their accessible, upbeat sound that often incorporated elements of classic R&B, doo-wop, and pub rock. Lewis's vocal delivery was often described as soulful yet gritty, and his songwriting frequently featured clever, relatable lyrics. The band's emphasis on strong melodies, catchy hooks, and polished production made them a staple of 1980s radio and MTV.

Acting Career

Beyond music, Huey Lewis has also pursued an acting career, appearing in films and television shows. His notable roles include:

• Duets (2000): He starred alongside Gwyneth Paltrow in this karaoke-themed film, showcasing his musical talents on screen.
• Various TV Appearances: He has made guest appearances in popular TV series such as The Blacklist and Hot in Cleveland.

Recent Activities and Health Challenges

In recent years, Huey Lewis has faced significant health challenges. In 2018, he announced that he was suffering from Ménière's disease, an inner ear disorder that causes fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo [5]. This condition severely impacted his ability to perform live, forcing Huey Lewis and the News to cancel all their upcoming tour dates indefinitely.

Despite the challenges, Lewis has continued to be involved in creative projects. He released an album of new material with the band, Weather, in 2020, which had been recorded prior to his hearing issues becoming debilitating [6]. He has also been an advocate for Ménière's disease awareness and research.

Why He's Still Relevant

Huey Lewis remains a beloved figure in popular music. His songs continue to receive airplay, and his contributions to the soundtrack of Back to the Future ensure his music reaches new generations. His openness about his health struggles has also brought attention to Ménière's disease, making him an important voice for those living with the condition. His legacy is one of crafting infectious, feel-good music that defined an era.

References:

[1] AllMusic. "Clover Biography." AllMusic.

[2] RIAA. "Gold & Platinum: Sports." Recording Industry Association of America.

[3] Billboard. "Huey Lewis & The News Chart History." Billboard.

[4] IMDb. "Back to the Future Awards." IMDb.

[5] Rolling Stone. "Huey Lewis Cancels All 2018 Shows Due to Hearing Loss." Rolling Stone.

[6] Pitchfork. "Huey Lewis and the News Announce First Album in 19 Years, Weather." Pitchfork.