Huey Lewis & The News: What Are They Up To Now?

Hey everyone! Ever find yourself humming “The Power of Love” or maybe tapping your feet to “Hip to Be Square” and wonder, "What ever happened to Huey Lewis & The News?" Well, you're not alone! This iconic band, a staple of the 80s music scene, left an indelible mark on pop culture. Let’s dive into what they’ve been up to, their legacy, and why they still matter today.

The Heyday of Huey Lewis & The News

To truly appreciate where they are now, let's take a trip down memory lane. Huey Lewis & The News burst onto the scene with their catchy tunes and relatable lyrics. Their breakthrough album, Sports, released in 1983, was a massive hit, spawning several top 10 singles. Tracks like “Heart and Soul,” “I Want a New Drug,” and “If This Is It” dominated the airwaves and MTV. Sports wasn't just an album; it was a cultural phenomenon, perfectly capturing the zeitgeist of the 80s. The band's clean-cut image and energetic performances made them a favorite among audiences of all ages. They weren't trying to be edgy or controversial; they were just making good, honest music that people could enjoy. This authenticity resonated with fans and helped them stand out in a crowded music landscape. Following the success of Sports, Huey Lewis & The News continued their chart-topping streak with albums like Fore! in 1986. This album featured hits like “Stuck with You,” “Hip to Be Square,” and “Jacob’s Ladder,” further solidifying their status as one of the biggest bands in the world. Their music became synonymous with the 80s, appearing in movies, TV shows, and commercials. They even contributed the iconic song “The Power of Love” to the Back to the Future soundtrack, earning them an Academy Award nomination. The band's success wasn't just about catchy tunes; it was also about their tight musicianship and energetic live shows. Huey Lewis, with his charismatic stage presence and distinctive harmonica playing, led the band with enthusiasm and skill. The News, consisting of talented musicians like Mario Cipollina, Johnny Colla, Bill Gibson, Chris Hayes, and Sean Hopper, provided the perfect backing for Lewis's vocals and harmonica. Together, they created a sound that was both polished and raw, appealing to a wide range of listeners. But what truly set Huey Lewis & The News apart was their ability to connect with their audience. Their songs told stories about everyday life, love, and relationships. They weren't afraid to be vulnerable in their lyrics, and they often injected humor into their music. This combination of relatability and humor made them endearing to fans and helped them build a loyal following. Their concerts were known for their high energy and audience interaction. The band always seemed to be having fun on stage, and their enthusiasm was contagious. They would often improvise during their shows, adding new twists to their classic songs and keeping things fresh for their fans. In addition to their musical success, Huey Lewis & The News were also known for their philanthropic efforts. They supported various charities and causes, using their platform to make a positive impact on the world. This commitment to giving back further endeared them to their fans and solidified their reputation as one of the most beloved bands of the 80s.

What Happened After The 80s?

As the music landscape shifted in the 90s, Huey Lewis & The News faced the challenges that many 80s bands did. The rise of grunge and alternative rock changed the mainstream music scene, and bands that had once dominated the charts found themselves struggling to stay relevant. However, Huey Lewis & The News didn't simply fade away. They adapted and continued to make music, albeit with less mainstream attention. In the early 1990s, they released the album Hard at Play, which, while not as commercially successful as their previous efforts, still showcased their signature sound and songwriting. The album featured the singles “Couple Days Off” and “It Hit Me Like a Hammer,” which received moderate airplay. Despite the changing musical landscape, the band continued to tour, playing their classic hits for loyal fans. They embraced the nostalgia circuit, performing at festivals and concerts alongside other 80s icons. These shows allowed them to connect with their fans and keep their music alive. In 1994, Huey Lewis & The News released Four Chords & Several Years Ago, an album of classic rock and roll covers. This album was a departure from their original material, but it allowed them to showcase their musical versatility and pay tribute to their influences. The album included covers of songs by artists like Chuck Berry, The J. Geils Band, and The Steve Miller Band. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Huey Lewis also pursued other projects, including acting and television appearances. He appeared in films like Short Cuts and Sphere, and he also made guest appearances on TV shows like Just Shoot Me! and One Tree Hill. These roles allowed him to showcase his comedic talents and broaden his appeal beyond music. The band continued to tour and record sporadically, releasing albums like Plan B in 2001. While these later albums didn't achieve the same level of commercial success as their earlier work, they demonstrated the band's commitment to making music and staying true to their sound. They also continued to engage with their fans through social media and online platforms, keeping them updated on their activities and upcoming shows. One of the biggest challenges the band faced in the later years was Huey Lewis's diagnosis with Ménière's disease, an inner ear disorder that can cause vertigo and hearing loss. This condition made it difficult for Lewis to perform and record, and it forced the band to cancel several tour dates. Despite these challenges, Huey Lewis remained determined to continue making music. He worked with doctors and specialists to manage his condition, and he continued to write and record new songs. In 2020, Huey Lewis & The News released their first album of original material in nearly two decades, titled Weather. The album was well-received by critics and fans, and it demonstrated that the band still had plenty to offer. However, Lewis's Ménière's disease made it difficult for him to promote the album and tour, and the band's future remains uncertain. Despite the challenges they faced, Huey Lewis & The News have left a lasting legacy on the music industry. Their catchy tunes, relatable lyrics, and energetic performances have made them one of the most beloved bands of the 80s. Their music continues to be played on the radio and streamed online, and they continue to inspire new generations of musicians. They have also maintained a loyal fan base who continue to support their music and attend their concerts. Their story is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories.

Huey Lewis Today

So, what's Huey Lewis up to these days? Well, it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster. In recent years, Huey has been battling Ménière's disease, an inner ear disorder that has significantly affected his hearing. This has understandably impacted his ability to perform, which is heartbreaking for him and his fans. Despite these challenges, Huey's spirit remains strong. He’s been focusing on managing his health and exploring other creative outlets. In 2020, Huey Lewis & The News released Weather, their first album of original material in almost two decades. The album was a testament to their enduring talent and a welcome return for fans. Although touring has been difficult, Huey has made appearances and continues to connect with his audience whenever possible. He's also been involved in raising awareness about Ménière's disease, using his platform to educate others about the condition. Beyond music, Huey has always had a passion for acting. He’s appeared in several films and TV shows over the years, showcasing his versatility as a performer. While his health has limited his ability to take on new roles, he remains open to opportunities that align with his interests. Huey is also an avid golfer, and he often participates in charity golf tournaments. This allows him to combine his love of the sport with his commitment to giving back to the community. He's also a dedicated family man, spending time with his loved ones and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Despite the challenges he's faced, Huey remains optimistic about the future. He's grateful for the support of his fans and the opportunity to continue making music. He's also determined to find new ways to connect with his audience and share his passion for life. Huey Lewis's story is one of resilience and determination. He's faced adversity with grace and courage, and he continues to inspire others with his positive attitude. His music has touched the lives of millions, and his legacy as one of the most beloved musicians of the 80s is secure.

The Enduring Appeal of Huey Lewis & The News

Why do Huey Lewis & The News still resonate with so many people? The answer lies in their timeless music. Their songs are feel-good anthems that evoke a sense of nostalgia and optimism. Whether it's the infectious energy of “The Power of Love” or the relatable lyrics of “Stuck with You,” their music has a way of connecting with listeners on a personal level. Their songs are also incredibly well-crafted, with catchy melodies, tight harmonies, and memorable hooks. They're the kind of songs that get stuck in your head and make you want to sing along. And because their music is so accessible, it appeals to a wide range of listeners, from Baby Boomers to Millennials. Another reason for their enduring appeal is their authenticity. Huey Lewis & The News were never trying to be something they weren't. They were just a group of talented musicians who loved making music together. They weren't afraid to be themselves, and their genuine personalities shone through in their music and performances. This authenticity resonated with fans and helped them build a loyal following. They also had a knack for writing songs that were both fun and meaningful. Their songs often explored themes of love, relationships, and everyday life, but they always injected humor and optimism into their lyrics. This combination of relatability and humor made their music endearing to fans. Their live shows were also a key part of their appeal. Huey Lewis & The News were known for their high-energy performances and their ability to connect with their audience. They always seemed to be having fun on stage, and their enthusiasm was contagious. Their concerts were a celebration of music and life, and they left audiences feeling uplifted and energized. In addition to their musical talents, Huey Lewis & The News were also known for their professionalism and their commitment to their fans. They always treated their audience with respect, and they were always willing to go the extra mile to make their shows special. This dedication to their fans helped them build a strong and lasting relationship with their audience. Their music has also been featured in numerous films and TV shows, further solidifying their place in pop culture history. “The Power of Love” is arguably their most iconic song, thanks to its inclusion in the Back to the Future soundtrack. But their other songs have also been used in countless movies and TV shows, helping to introduce their music to new generations of listeners. Huey Lewis & The News have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Their catchy tunes, relatable lyrics, and energetic performances have made them one of the most beloved bands of the 80s. Their music continues to be played on the radio and streamed online, and they continue to inspire new generations of musicians. They are a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories. So, the next time you hear a Huey Lewis & The News song, take a moment to appreciate their contribution to music and pop culture. They are a band that deserves to be remembered and celebrated for their timeless music and their enduring appeal.

What's Next for Huey?

While the future is uncertain due to his health, Huey Lewis’s impact on music remains undeniable. He and The News gave us anthems that continue to brighten our days. Whether he's able to perform again or focuses on other passions, his legacy is secure. And for those of us who grew up with their music, we’ll always remember the joy and energy that Huey Lewis & The News brought to the world. So keep those classic tunes spinning, guys! They're a reminder of a simpler time and a testament to the power of great music.