Huey Lewis and the News: A Heart and Soul Story

How a Hit Song Fueled the Success of "Sports"

In the annals of rock and roll, the album "Sports" by Huey Lewis and the News stands as a testament to the power of a hit song. Fueled by the infectious energy and relatable lyrics of "Heart and Soul," the album became a global smash, solidifying the band's status as one of the most beloved in the world.

The Genesis of a Classic

The story of "Heart and Soul" begins in the early 1980s, when the band was struggling to find commercial success. Lead singer Huey Lewis had written several songs that he felt could be potential hits, but none had yet struck a chord with the masses.

A Chance Encounter

Fate intervened when Lewis stumbled upon a demo tape by a struggling songwriter named Bruce Hornsby. The tape featured a song called "The Way It Is," which had a melody that struck Lewis's ear. He reached out to Hornsby and asked if he would be willing to collaborate on a song for the band.

Writing History

Together, Lewis and Hornsby spent hours in the studio, crafting the lyrics and music that would become "Heart and Soul." The song's catchy hook, relatable lyrics about love and loss, and upbeat tempo perfectly captured the spirit of the band. When it was finally released as the first single from "Sports" in 1983, it quickly rose to the top of the charts.