35 Facts About Hue

35 Facts About Huey Lewis and the News

Huey Lewis and the News is a band that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Known for their catchy tunes and energetic performances, they have a fascinating history filled with interesting tidbits. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about this iconic band.

Early Beginnings

Before they became household names, Huey Lewis and the News had humble beginnings. Here are some facts about their early days.

1. 01Huey Lewis's Real Name: Huey Lewis was born Hugh Anthony Cregg III. He adopted the stage name "Huey Lewis" when he started his music career.
2. 02Band Formation: The band was originally called "Clover" before they rebranded as Huey Lewis and the News in 1979.
3. 03First Album: Their self-titled debut album, "Huey Lewis and the News," was released in 1980 but didn't achieve much commercial success.
4. 04San Francisco Roots: The band originated in San Francisco, California, and was heavily influenced by the local music scene.

Rise to Fame

The band's journey to stardom was marked by several key moments that catapulted them into the limelight.

5. 05Breakthrough Album: Their second album, "Picture This," released in 1982, was their breakthrough, featuring the hit single "Do You Believe in Love."
6. 06Sports Album: The 1983 album "Sports" was a massive success, selling over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone.
7. 07Chart-Topping Hits: "Sports" produced four Top 10 hits, including "Heart and Soul" and "I Want a New Drug."
8. 08MTV Era: The band gained significant exposure through music videos on MTV, which was a new and influential platform at the time.

Iconic Songs

Huey Lewis and the News are known for several iconic songs that have stood the test of time.

9. 09"The Power of Love": This song was featured in the 1985 movie "Back to the Future" and became a number-one hit.
10. 10"Hip to Be Square": Released in 1986, this song became an anthem for the band and was featured in the movie "American Psycho."
11. 11"Stuck with You": This 1986 hit spent three weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
12. 12"If This Is It": Another hit from the "Sports" album, this song showcased the band's versatility and appeal.

Band Members

The members of Huey Lewis and the News have played a crucial role in the band's success. Here are some interesting facts about them.

13. 13Johnny Colla: The saxophonist and guitarist co-wrote many of the band's hits, including "The Heart of Rock & Roll."
14. 14Bill Gibson: The drummer has been with the band since its inception and is known for his powerful drumming style.
15. 15Sean Hopper: The keyboardist's unique sound has been a staple in the band's music.
16. 16Mario Cipollina: The original bassist left the band in 1995 but was instrumental in their early success.

Awards and Recognition

Over the years, Huey Lewis and the News have received numerous awards and accolades for their contributions to music.

17. 17Grammy Awards: The band has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards and won one for Best Music Video, Long Form for "The Heart of Rock & Roll."
18. 18American Music Awards: They won an American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Band/Duo/Group in 1985.
19. 19Hollywood Walk of Fame: Huey Lewis received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1986.
20. 20Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Although not inducted, the band has been considered for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Huey Lewis and the News that might surprise you.

21. 21Harmonica Skills: Huey Lewis is an accomplished harmonica player and has played on albums for other artists, including Thin Lizzy.
22. 22Acting Roles: Huey Lewis has appeared in several films and TV shows, including "Back to the Future" and "Hot in Cleveland."
23. 23Golf Enthusiast: Huey Lewis is an avid golfer and has participated in numerous celebrity golf tournaments.
24. 24Charity Work: The band is known for their philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes and charities over the years.

Legacy and Influence

The impact of Huey Lewis and the News on the music industry is undeniable. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

25. 25Influence on Pop Culture: Their music has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, cementing their place in pop culture.
26. 26Cover Versions: Many artists have covered their songs, showcasing the band's lasting influence on the music industry.
27. 27Touring: Despite health issues, Huey Lewis and the News have continued to tour and perform, delighting fans worldwide.
28. 28Innovative Sound: The band's unique blend of rock, pop, and blues has influenced countless musicians and bands.

Recent Developments

Even after decades in the music industry, Huey Lewis and the News continue to make headlines with their recent activities.

29. 29Hearing Loss: Huey Lewis was diagnosed with Ménière's disease in 2018, which has affected his hearing and ability to perform.
30. 30New Album: Despite health challenges, the band released a new album, "Weather," in 2020, their first in nearly two decades.
31. 31Documentary: A documentary about the band, "Huey Lewis and the News: The Heart of Rock & Roll," was released in 2021.
32. 32Broadway Musical: Plans for a Broadway musical based on the band's music have been announced, showcasing their enduring popularity.

Trivia

To wrap things up, here are some trivia facts that add a little extra flavor to the story of Huey Lewis and the News.

33. 33Name Origin: The band's name was inspired by a friend who suggested "Huey Lewis and the American Express," but they changed it to avoid legal issues.
34. 34First Gig: Their first gig as Huey Lewis and the News was at a club in Marin County, California.
35. 35Fan Base: The band has a dedicated fan base known as "Newsies," who have followed them for decades.

The Final Huey Nugget

Huey Lewis and the News have left an indelible mark on the music world. From their catchy tunes to their memorable music videos, they've been a staple in pop culture for decades. Their journey, filled with chart-topping hits and unforgettable performances, showcases their talent and resilience.

Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering their music, there's no denying the impact they've had. Their blend of rock, pop, and blues has created a unique sound that's hard to forget. So next time you hear "The Power of Love" or "Hip to Be Square," remember the legacy of Huey Lewis and the News.

Their story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in the music industry. Keep rocking out to their timeless hits and celebrate the magic they've brought to our ears.