What Happened to Huey Lewis and the News: Music Industry Updates

If you’ve followed Huey Lewis and the News over the years, you know their journey hasn’t been easy. You might remember their energetic hits, but recent health struggles and industry changes have shifted the band’s path. Still, they’re finding ways to stay connected with fans and remain relevant. You may wonder how they’re doing it, and what’s really changed behind the scenes—there’s more to the story than you might expect.

Origins, Formation, and Rise to Fame

Huey Lewis and the News emerged in the early 1970s from the remnants of the band Clover. Initially, they performed under the name Huey Lewis & The American Express, but a trademark dispute necessitated a name change.

The band released their self-titled debut album in 1980, which achieved minimal commercial success. However, their follow-up album, “Picture This,” released in 1982, marked a turning point for the band, particularly with the hit single “Do You Believe in Love.”

This track, along with others from the album, helped the band gain recognition and establish a distinct musical style characterized by a blend of rock and rhythm and blues.

Their unique sound and energetic performances contributed to their rise in popularity during the 1980s, ultimately solidifying their status as prominent figures in the music scene of that era.

Breakthrough Albums and Chart Success

Huey Lewis and the News initially faced limited success with their debut album, but their 1982 release, "Picture This," marked a significant turning point for the band. This album achieved gold certification and featured the hit single “Do You Believe in Love,” which reached No. 13 on the Billboard 200 chart.

Following this, their 1983 album "Sports" solidified their status in the rock music scene, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200. This album included several significant tracks, notably "I Want a New Drug," which also enjoyed top-ten success.

Both "The Power of Love" and "I Want a New Drug" were certified gold, highlighting the band's capacity for sustained chart performance and commercial viability in the rock genre.

Huey Lewis and the News experienced significant commercial success while also facing notable legal challenges that defined a portion of their career. One prominent legal issue involved their song “I Want a New Drug,” which led to a settlement with Ray Parker Jr. over allegations of similarities to the theme from the film "Ghostbusters." This case exemplified the complexities of copyright in the music industry.

The band gained further recognition through their contribution to the film “Back to the Future,” particularly with the track “The Power of Love,” which received both critical acclaim and commercial success. Their music not only resonated with audiences at the time but has also been referenced in various cultural contexts, such as in the film “American Psycho,” highlighting the band’s integration into pop culture discussions.

Furthermore, their performance at the Live Aid concert in 1985 marked a significant moment in their career, as it showcased their music to a global audience and solidified their status during a pivotal time in the music industry.

In contemporary times, their influence persists, evidenced by the Broadway musical “The Heart of Rock and Roll,” which serves to celebrate their musical contributions and narrative. This ongoing legacy reflects both their impact on the pop music landscape and the broader cultural fabric.

Recent Health Challenges and New Music

Huey Lewis, a prominent figure in the music industry, encountered significant health challenges beginning in 2018 when he was diagnosed with Ménière's disease, a condition that severely affected his hearing abilities.

As a result of this diagnosis, Lewis and his band were compelled to cancel their tour dates. In response to his hearing difficulties, Lewis opted to have a cochlear implant fitted, which has helped improve his speech comprehension.

Despite these ongoing health issues, the band continued to remain active creatively. In 2020, they released an album titled Weather, which consisted of seven previously recorded tracks, illustrating their commitment to music production during this challenging period.

Additionally, the musical The Heart of Rock and Roll serves as a testament to Lewis’s enduring influence in the music scene. While uncertainties remain regarding his future performances, Lewis maintains a sense of hope for returning to the stage.

Tributes, Interviews, and Fan Engagement

Huey Lewis and the News have been actively engaging with their fan base and honoring music legends through various initiatives. Recently, Huey Lewis paid tribute to influential artists such as Ozzy Osbourne and Brian Wilson, demonstrating the band's respect for their contributions to the music industry.

In a conversation on the "Nothing Left Unsaid" podcast, Lewis discussed his career and the challenges he continues to face, providing insights into his experiences.

The announcement of the concert "A Night in the Pocket" reflects the band's ongoing effort to connect with their audience. In addition, interactive initiatives, including the Fan Photo of the Week and a quest for Marty McFly’s iconic guitar, serve to involve fans in a participatory manner.

These efforts indicate a strategic approach by the band to maintain relevance and foster a sense of community within their fan base while celebrating the legacy of music.

Upcoming Events and Continuing Influence

Huey Lewis and the News have encountered various challenges in recent years, particularly due to health issues faced by lead singer Huey Lewis. Despite these hurdles, the band continues to maintain an active schedule, engaging in public events that reinforce their established presence in the music industry.

Notably, on July 19, 2025, the band is set to perform at “A Night in the Pocket,” a complimentary concert in Nashville that will also feature prominent drummers like Bill Gibson.

Huey Lewis has remained influential within the music community, often sharing insights about his extensive career, including the musical adaptation of his work titled "The Heart of Rock and Roll," as well as expressing his aspirations for future live performances.

The band’s ongoing engagement in events and interaction with fans contributes to preserving their legacy, highlighting their significance in the music scene. Overall, while challenges persist, the band's activities indicate a commitment to sustaining their influence in contemporary music.

Conclusion

You've seen how Huey Lewis and the News have weathered both triumphs and tough times. Despite health setbacks, they haven’t stopped connecting with fans or making music. Their legacy keeps growing through new releases, tributes, and live events. If you’re a fan, you can still catch their rhythm at special performances and keep the spirit alive. The band’s influence endures, proving that their classic sound and upbeat energy continue to inspire and unite generations.