Huey Lewis And The News: Their 10 Biggest Hits

Hey everyone! Let's dive into the incredible career of Huey Lewis and the News, a band that absolutely dominated the 1980s with their infectious blend of rock, pop, and blue-eyed soul. Known for their clean-cut image and catchy tunes, they racked up a string of Top 10 hits that still sound fantastic today. So, buckle up as we count down their ten biggest chart-toppers and explore what made each song so special.

1. The Power of Love

"The Power of Love" isn't just a song; it's a cultural icon. Released in 1985, this track became an integral part of the Back to the Future soundtrack, catapulting both the movie and the band to even greater heights. The story behind its creation is almost as captivating as the song itself. Huey Lewis initially hesitated to contribute to the soundtrack, but director Robert Zemeckis was persistent, and thank goodness for that! The song perfectly captures the film's adventurous and romantic spirit, blending 80s rock with a timeless message about the strength of love. Its catchy melody, driven by a powerful drumbeat and punctuated by those signature saxophone riffs, makes it impossible not to tap your feet. The lyrics, simple yet profound, speak to the universal experience of being swept away by love's overwhelming force. It's no wonder "The Power of Love" soared to the top of the Billboard charts, becoming the band's first number-one hit and solidifying their place in pop culture history. Beyond its commercial success, the song earned an Academy Award nomination and remains a staple on radio stations and playlists worldwide. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while still sounding fresh and exciting. For many, it's more than just a song; it's a time capsule that instantly transports them back to the magic of the 80s and the thrill of Marty McFly's adventures. So, crank it up and let "The Power of Love" remind you why Huey Lewis and the News were, and still are, one of the greatest bands of their era.

2. Stuck with You

Alright, let's talk about "Stuck with You," another absolute gem from Huey Lewis and the News that hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986. This song is the epitome of feel-good music, radiating a sense of contentment and lasting affection that's hard to resist. Unlike some of their more high-energy tracks, "Stuck with You" has a laid-back, almost country-tinged vibe, which gives it a unique charm. The mellow tempo and Huey Lewis's smooth vocals create an atmosphere of warmth and intimacy, making you feel like you're sitting on a porch swing with your loved one on a lazy summer evening. Lyrically, the song is all about appreciating the simple joys of a committed relationship. It's not about grand gestures or dramatic declarations of love; it's about the everyday moments and the comfort of knowing you have someone by your side through thick and thin. This relatable message resonated with audiences of all ages, helping to propel the song to the top of the charts. What's particularly interesting about "Stuck with You" is its understated arrangement. The instrumentation is relatively sparse, with the focus on the vocals and a gentle acoustic guitar melody. This simplicity allows the song's emotional core to shine through, creating a powerful connection with the listener. The music video, featuring the band members in various lighthearted scenarios, further enhances the song's positive and optimistic message. In a world often filled with negativity, "Stuck with You" is a refreshing reminder to cherish the relationships we have and to appreciate the simple pleasures of life. It's a timeless classic that continues to bring a smile to the faces of listeners everywhere. It's one of those songs that's so catchy and enjoyable that you can listen to it over and over again without ever getting tired of it. Trust me, guys, "Stuck with You" is a must-have for any playlist.

3. Jacob's Ladder

"Jacob's Ladder," released in 1986, showcases a different side of Huey Lewis and the News. While still undeniably catchy, this song tackles more serious themes than some of their other hits. Written by Bruce Hornsby and his brother John, "Jacob's Ladder" is a commentary on ambition, success, and the potential pitfalls of chasing after materialistic goals. The lyrics tell the story of a person climbing the ladder of success, only to find that the higher they climb, the more they lose sight of what truly matters. The song's title is a biblical reference, alluding to the story of Jacob's dream in which he sees a ladder stretching from earth to heaven. This imagery reinforces the idea of striving for something beyond the material world. Musically, "Jacob's Ladder" is characterized by its driving rhythm, prominent keyboard melodies, and Huey Lewis's powerful vocals. The song builds in intensity as it progresses, mirroring the increasing pressure and anxiety of the protagonist. What makes "Jacob's Ladder" so compelling is its ability to deliver a thoughtful message without sacrificing its accessibility. It's a song that makes you think while also making you want to tap your feet. The song reached number one on the Billboard charts, demonstrating that audiences were receptive to its blend of social commentary and catchy melodies. In a world that often glorifies wealth and achievement, "Jacob's Ladder" serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us to stay grounded and to prioritize our values. It's a song that's as relevant today as it was in the 80s, and it's a testament to the band's ability to create music that's both entertaining and thought-provoking. So, next time you hear "Jacob's Ladder," take a moment to reflect on its message and consider what truly matters in your own life.

4. I Want a New Drug

"I Want a New Drug" is one of those songs that instantly gets your blood pumping. Released in 1984, this track is a high-energy explosion of rock and roll that's guaranteed to get you moving. The infectious beat, driven by a thumping bassline and punctuated by those signature Huey Lewis horns, makes it impossible to stand still. The lyrics, while seemingly simple, are actually quite clever. The song isn't literally about wanting a new drug; it's a metaphor for the exhilarating feeling of being in love. Huey Lewis himself has explained that the song is about the rush of emotions and the addictive quality of a new relationship. The catchy chorus, with its repeated refrain of "I want a new drug," is instantly memorable and has become one of the band's most recognizable hooks. What makes "I Want a New Drug" so effective is its simplicity. The song is straightforward, upbeat, and unapologetically fun. It's the perfect antidote to a bad day, and it's guaranteed to put a smile on your face. The music video, featuring the band performing in a lively club setting, perfectly captures the song's energy and enthusiasm. In addition to its commercial success, "I Want a New Drug" has also been the subject of some controversy. The song was famously parodied by Weird Al Yankovic as "I Want a New Duck," but Huey Lewis initially refused to grant permission for the parody. This led to a brief feud between the two artists, but they eventually reconciled, and Yankovic was able to release his version of the song. Regardless of the controversy, "I Want a New Drug" remains a beloved classic and a testament to Huey Lewis and the News' ability to create infectious and enduring pop-rock anthems. It's a song that's as relevant today as it was in the 80s, and it's guaranteed to get any party started. So, turn it up and let "I Want a New Drug" remind you of the joy and excitement of falling in love.

5. Hip to Be Square

"Hip to Be Square," released in 1986, is arguably one of Huey Lewis and the News' most controversial and misunderstood songs. While it's undeniably catchy and upbeat, its lyrics have been interpreted in various ways, leading to some debate about its true meaning. On the surface, the song seems to be an anthem for conformity, celebrating the virtues of being conventional and fitting in. However, some critics have argued that it's actually a satire of yuppie culture, poking fun at the materialistic values and conservative attitudes of the 1980s. Huey Lewis himself has offered conflicting explanations of the song's meaning, adding to the ambiguity. Musically, "Hip to Be Square" is characterized by its driving beat, prominent saxophone riffs, and Huey Lewis's energetic vocals. The song's catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it an earworm that's hard to shake. The music video, featuring the band members in suits and ties, further reinforces the song's image of conformity. However, the video also contains some subtle hints of satire, such as the band members' exaggerated gestures and expressions. One of the most memorable aspects of "Hip to Be Square" is its inclusion in the film American Psycho. In a now-infamous scene, Patrick Bateman, the film's protagonist, delivers a monologue about the song before brutally murdering one of his colleagues. This scene has forever linked "Hip to Be Square" to themes of violence and madness, adding another layer of complexity to its interpretation. Despite the controversy and ambiguity, "Hip to Be Square" remains a popular and enduring song. Its catchy melody and upbeat tempo make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, while its ambiguous lyrics continue to spark debate and discussion. Whether you interpret it as a celebration of conformity or a satire of yuppie culture, there's no denying that "Hip to Be Square" is a fascinating and thought-provoking song.

6-10. Other Chart-Toppers

Rounding out their Top 10 hits, we have:

• "Do You Believe in Love": This early hit showcased their signature sound.
• "Heart and Soul": A cover song that they made their own.
• "If This Is It": Catchy and relatable, about the uncertainties of love.
• "Some of My Lies Are True (Sooner or Later)": A great song with a story.
• "Perfect World": Optimistic and upbeat.

Huey Lewis and the News left an indelible mark on the music scene of the 1980s, and their hits continue to be enjoyed by fans of all ages. Their blend of rock, pop, and soul, combined with their clean-cut image and catchy tunes, made them one of the most successful and beloved bands of their era. So, next time you're looking for some feel-good music, be sure to give Huey Lewis and the News a listen. You won't be disappointed!