Huey Lewis And The News: Band Members Then And Now

Hey everyone! Let's dive into the world of Huey Lewis and The News, the band that brought us some of the most iconic pop-rock hits of the 80s. We'll explore who the members were and what they're up to now. Buckle up for a trip down memory lane!

The Heart and Soul: Huey Lewis

Huey Lewis, the frontman and the namesake of the band, was born on July 5, 1950. His journey to stardom is quite fascinating. Before forming Huey Lewis and The News, he was part of a band called Clover, which even had a stint backing Elvis Costello. But it was in 1979 that he formed The News, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Lewis's charismatic stage presence and distinctive vocals were key to the band's success. Hits like "Hip to Be Square," "The Power of Love," and "Stuck with You" became anthems of a generation. His ability to blend rock, pop, and blues into a catchy, radio-friendly sound made Huey Lewis and The News a household name. Beyond his musical talents, Lewis also had a knack for acting, appearing in films like "Back to the Future" (where the band's music was prominently featured) and "Short Cuts."

In recent years, Huey Lewis has faced significant health challenges. He was diagnosed with Meniere's disease, an inner ear disorder that has severely affected his hearing. This condition has made it difficult for him to perform, and he has been open about the struggles and frustrations of living with hearing loss. Despite these challenges, Lewis remains a beloved figure in the music world, and his contributions to pop culture are undeniable. He continues to make occasional appearances and is involved in various projects, always remembered for his infectious energy and timeless hits.

The Sax Man: Johnny Colla

Johnny Colla, born on July 2, 1952, is the saxophonist, guitarist, and songwriter for Huey Lewis and The News. Colla's contributions to the band extend far beyond his instrumental talents; he is also a key songwriter, co-writing some of their biggest hits. His musical journey began long before The News, playing in various bands and honing his skills across multiple instruments.

Colla's saxophone riffs are instantly recognizable in many of the band's songs, adding a unique flavor to their pop-rock sound. His songwriting credits include hits like "Heart and Soul" and "The Power of Love," showcasing his ability to craft catchy and memorable tunes. Beyond his work with Huey Lewis and The News, Colla has also been involved in various other musical projects, demonstrating his versatility and passion for music.

In addition to his musical endeavors, Johnny Colla has also ventured into other creative fields. He has worked on film scores and continues to write and produce music for other artists. His ability to adapt and evolve has kept him relevant in the ever-changing music industry. Colla remains an integral part of the Huey Lewis and The News legacy, and his contributions to their sound and success are immeasurable. Whether he's shredding on the saxophone or crafting a new hit song, Johnny Colla's talent and dedication shine through.

The Drummer: Bill Gibson

Bill Gibson, born on November 13, 1951, is the drummer and percussionist for Huey Lewis and The News. Gibson's steady beats and rhythmic precision provided the backbone for the band's high-energy performances. Before joining The News, he was an experienced drummer, having played in various bands and genres.

Gibson's drumming style is characterized by its solid groove and dynamic fills, perfectly complementing the band's blend of rock, pop, and blues. His ability to maintain a consistent rhythm while adding creative flourishes helped define the band's signature sound. Beyond his drumming skills, Gibson also contributed to the band's songwriting, adding his musical insights to the creative process.

After the height of Huey Lewis and The News' success, Bill Gibson continued to be involved in music, playing in various projects and exploring different musical styles. While he has maintained a lower profile compared to some of his bandmates, his contributions to the band's legacy remain significant. Gibson's drumming laid the foundation for many of their biggest hits, and his rhythmic talent helped propel the band to international stardom. He is remembered as a key member of the band, providing the steady beat that kept the music alive.

The Keyboardist: Sean Hopper

Sean Hopper, born on March 31, 1953, was the keyboardist for Huey Lewis and The News. Hopper's keyboard skills added depth and texture to the band's sound, providing melodic support and harmonic richness. His musical journey began early, studying piano and developing a love for various musical genres.

Hopper's keyboard playing was an essential element of the band's signature sound, adding layers of complexity to their catchy pop-rock tunes. His ability to play both melodic lines and harmonic chords enhanced the band's overall musicality. Beyond his instrumental talents, Hopper was also known for his calm and steady presence, providing a grounding influence within the band.

Sadly, Sean Hopper passed away on June 7, 2023, leaving a void in the hearts of his bandmates and fans. His contributions to Huey Lewis and The News were invaluable, and his musical talent will be remembered fondly. Hopper's keyboard playing helped define the band's sound, and his presence will be deeply missed. His legacy lives on through the timeless music he helped create, and his memory will continue to inspire musicians and fans alike. He was a true talent and a cherished member of the Huey Lewis and The News family.

The Bassist: Mario Cipollina

Mario Cipollina, born on November 10, 1943, was the bassist for Huey Lewis and The News. Cipollina's solid bass lines provided the rhythmic foundation for many of the band's biggest hits. Before joining The News, he was a seasoned musician, having played in various bands and genres.

Cipollina's bass playing was characterized by its simplicity and effectiveness, locking in with the drums to create a powerful and danceable groove. His ability to hold down the low end allowed the other instruments to shine, creating a balanced and cohesive sound. Beyond his instrumental skills, Cipollina was also known for his quiet demeanor and dedication to his craft.

Mario Cipollina passed away on May 10, 1993. His contributions to Huey Lewis and The News were significant, and his bass playing helped define the band's sound. Cipollina's legacy lives on through the timeless music he helped create, and his memory will continue to be honored by fans and musicians alike. He was a true talent and a valued member of the band.

The Guitarist: Chris Hayes

Chris Hayes, born on November 24, 1957, is the guitarist for Huey Lewis and The News. Hayes's guitar riffs and solos added energy and excitement to the band's performances. Before joining The News, he was a skilled guitarist, having played in various bands and honing his craft.

Hayes's guitar playing is characterized by its bluesy feel and rock-solid technique, adding a unique edge to the band's pop-rock sound. His ability to blend melodic lines with high-energy solos made him a fan favorite. Beyond his instrumental skills, Hayes also contributed to the band's songwriting, adding his musical ideas to the creative process.

After the height of Huey Lewis and The News' success, Chris Hayes continued to be involved in music, playing in various projects and exploring different musical styles. He has also worked as a session musician, lending his guitar skills to other artists. Hayes remains a respected guitarist, and his contributions to the band's legacy are undeniable. His guitar work helped define the band's sound, and his presence on stage added to their high-energy performances.

The Other Guitarist: John Pierce

John Pierce is another guitarist who has been a part of Huey Lewis and The News, though he joined later in the band's history. His addition brought a fresh dynamic to the band's sound, contributing his own style and energy to their performances. Pierce's experience as a guitarist spans various genres, making him a versatile addition to the group.

Pierce's guitar playing complements the existing sound of Huey Lewis and The News while adding his unique flavor. His contributions have helped the band maintain its high-energy performances and continue to evolve musically. Beyond his instrumental skills, Pierce's passion for music shines through in his performances, making him a valued member of the band.

As Huey Lewis and The News continue to perform, John Pierce remains an integral part of their lineup, adding his guitar prowess to their timeless hits. His dedication to music and his ability to connect with audiences make him a respected and appreciated member of the band. Whether he's playing classic tunes or contributing to new material, John Pierce's guitar work enhances the overall experience of a Huey Lewis and The News concert.

In Conclusion

Huey Lewis and The News were more than just a band; they were a musical family. Each member brought their unique talents and personalities to the group, creating a sound that was both catchy and timeless. From Huey Lewis's charismatic vocals to Johnny Colla's sax riffs and the solid rhythm section of Bill Gibson and Mario Cipollina, every member played a crucial role in the band's success. Though some members are no longer with us, their music continues to bring joy to fans around the world. So next time you hear "The Power of Love" or "Hip to Be Square," remember the talented individuals who made it all happen. They truly made music that moves us!