Huey Lewis And The News: Ranking Their 10 Best Songs

Hey guys! Get ready to dive headfirst into the totally awesome world of Huey Lewis and the News! This band, with their infectious energy and killer tunes, absolutely dominated the 80s. We're going to break down their top 10 hits, exploring what made each one so special and why they continue to be staples on every good retro playlist. Buckle up, because it's time to get nostalgic!

1. "The Power of Love"

Let's kick things off with a bang, shall we? "The Power of Love" isn't just a Huey Lewis and the News song; it's a cultural phenomenon. Released in 1985 as part of the Back to the Future soundtrack, this track catapulted the band to even greater heights. The story behind it is pretty cool: Steven Spielberg himself asked Huey Lewis to write a song for the movie. Can you imagine getting that call? The result was pure magic. The song perfectly captures the movie's adventurous and romantic spirit, blending rock and pop elements into an unforgettable anthem.

What makes "The Power of Love" so iconic? First off, the intro is instantly recognizable. That driving guitar riff grabs you from the first note and doesn't let go. Then there's Huey Lewis's vocals – full of energy and charisma, perfectly matching the song's upbeat vibe. The lyrics are simple but powerful, celebrating the universal theme of love. And let's not forget the music video, which cleverly incorporates scenes from Back to the Future, further cementing the song's place in pop culture history. "The Power of Love" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and became an international hit, earning the band an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Even though they didn't win, the nomination alone speaks volumes about the song's impact. To this day, "The Power of Love" remains one of Huey Lewis and the News's most beloved and recognizable songs. It's a testament to their ability to craft catchy, feel-good music that resonates with audiences of all ages. Whether you're a fan of Back to the Future or just love a great 80s tune, this song is a must-have on your playlist.

2. "Stuck with You"

Next up, we have "Stuck with You," a song that proves Huey Lewis and the News could do more than just high-energy rock anthems. Released in 1986, this track showcases a softer, more romantic side of the band. "Stuck with You" is a beautiful ballad about finding lasting love and commitment. It's the kind of song that makes you want to slow dance with someone special or just reflect on the good things in your life.

The song's success lies in its simplicity and sincerity. The melody is gentle and soothing, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Huey Lewis's vocals are heartfelt and tender, conveying a sense of genuine emotion. The lyrics are relatable and honest, talking about the joys and challenges of being in a long-term relationship. The music video, featuring the band members in a playful and intimate setting, further enhances the song's romantic appeal. "Stuck with You" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that Huey Lewis and the News could conquer the charts with both upbeat rockers and heartfelt ballads. It's a song that has stood the test of time, continuing to be a popular choice for weddings, anniversaries, and other special occasions. If you're looking for a song that celebrates the power of love and commitment, "Stuck with You" is the perfect choice. It's a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures in life are the ones we share with someone we love.

3. "Hip to Be Square"

Alright, time to get a little quirky with "Hip to Be Square." Released in 1986 on the Fore! album, this song is a tongue-in-cheek celebration of conformity and embracing mainstream culture. It's one of those songs that you can't help but sing along to, even if you're not quite sure what it's about. The song became even more famous after its inclusion in the movie American Psycho, where Patrick Bateman famously discusses the song before committing a gruesome act. Talk about a song having a dark side!

What makes "Hip to Be Square" so memorable is its clever lyrics and infectious beat. The song's message is intentionally ambiguous, leaving listeners to interpret it in their own way. Some see it as a satire of yuppie culture, while others view it as a genuine endorsement of traditional values. Regardless of your interpretation, there's no denying that the song is incredibly catchy. The driving rhythm, the punchy horns, and Huey Lewis's energetic vocals all combine to create an irresistible musical experience. "Hip to Be Square" reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of Huey Lewis and the News's signature songs. It's a song that's both fun and thought-provoking, making it a true 80s classic. Whether you're a fan of the movie American Psycho or just appreciate a good dose of irony, "Hip to Be Square" is a must-listen.

4. "I Want a New Drug"

Now, let's talk about "I Want a New Drug." This song, released in 1984, is a high-energy, feel-good anthem about the search for that perfect something to make life even better. Whether it's love, excitement, or just a new experience, we've all been there, right? The song's infectious beat and catchy lyrics made it an instant hit, but it also landed the band in some legal trouble.

What makes "I Want a New Drug" so appealing is its universal theme and upbeat vibe. The lyrics are simple and relatable, capturing the desire for something more in life. The music is infectious, with a driving rhythm and a memorable chorus that's impossible to resist. However, the song's success was marred by a lawsuit filed by Ray Parker Jr., who claimed that the song plagiarized his hit "Ghostbusters." The case was eventually settled out of court, but it cast a shadow over the song's legacy. Despite the controversy, "I Want a New Drug" remains one of Huey Lewis and the News's most popular songs. It's a testament to their ability to create catchy, feel-good music that resonates with audiences of all ages. Whether you're looking for a song to dance to or just need a little pick-me-up, "I Want a New Drug" is sure to do the trick.

5. "Jacob's Ladder"

"Jacob's Ladder" is next; this track showcases the band's ability to tackle social commentary while still delivering a catchy tune. Released in 1986, the song tells the story of a man climbing the corporate ladder, sacrificing his values and integrity along the way. It's a cautionary tale about the dangers of ambition and the importance of staying true to yourself.

The song's success lies in its clever lyrics and relatable theme. The story of a man chasing success at any cost is one that resonates with many people, especially in today's competitive world. The music is upbeat and energetic, but the lyrics provide a sharp contrast, creating a thought-provoking listening experience. "Jacob's Ladder" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that Huey Lewis and the News could deliver a meaningful message without sacrificing their signature sound. It's a song that encourages listeners to reflect on their own values and priorities, making it more than just a catchy tune. If you're looking for a song that's both entertaining and thought-provoking, "Jacob's Ladder" is definitely worth a listen.

6. "If This Is It"

Let's move on to "If This Is It," a song that perfectly captures the uncertainty and excitement of new love. Released in 1984, this track is all about wondering if you've finally found "the one." It's a relatable feeling that many of us have experienced at some point in our lives, and Huey Lewis and the News nail it with their signature blend of energy and sincerity.

What makes "If This Is It" so appealing is its honest and heartfelt lyrics. The song perfectly captures the mix of hope and nervousness that comes with falling in love. The music is upbeat and catchy, with a memorable chorus that's easy to sing along to. The music video, featuring the band members in a variety of romantic scenarios, further enhances the song's theme. "If This Is It" reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Huey Lewis and the News's place as one of the top bands of the 80s. It's a song that reminds us of the joy and excitement of new love, making it a timeless classic. If you're looking for a song that captures the magic of romance, "If This Is It" is the perfect choice.

7. "Doing It All for My Baby"

"Doing It All for My Baby" is a classic feel-good tune that's all about the joys of being in love. Released in 1987, this song is an upbeat celebration of the lengths we'll go to for the people we care about. It's the kind of song that makes you want to dance around the room and spread some love.

The song's success lies in its simple yet effective message. The lyrics are straightforward and sincere, expressing the desire to do anything for the one you love. The music is infectious, with a driving rhythm and a catchy chorus that's impossible to resist. The music video, featuring the band members performing in a lively and energetic setting, further enhances the song's positive vibe. "Doing It All for My Baby" reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that Huey Lewis and the News could consistently deliver hits that resonated with audiences. It's a song that reminds us of the importance of love and commitment, making it a timeless classic. If you're looking for a song that will put a smile on your face and make you feel good, "Doing It All for My Baby" is the perfect choice.

8. "Perfect World"

"Perfect World" is up next, and it's a song that dreams of a better tomorrow. Released in 1988, this track is an optimistic anthem that envisions a world free of conflict and full of harmony. It's a reminder that we all have the power to make the world a better place, one step at a time.

What makes "Perfect World" so appealing is its positive message and uplifting vibe. The lyrics paint a picture of a world where everyone lives in peace and harmony, free from the problems that plague our society. The music is upbeat and energetic, with a catchy chorus that's easy to sing along to. The music video, featuring images of people from all walks of life coming together, further reinforces the song's message. "Perfect World" reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that Huey Lewis and the News could deliver a meaningful message without sacrificing their signature sound. It's a song that inspires hope and encourages listeners to believe in the possibility of a better future. If you're looking for a song that will uplift your spirits and remind you of the good in the world, "Perfect World" is the perfect choice.

9. "Walking on a Thin Line"

"Walking on a Thin Line" takes a more serious turn, addressing the struggles of soldiers returning from war. Released in 1984, this song is a poignant commentary on the challenges faced by veterans and the importance of supporting them. It's a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve our country.

The song's success lies in its honest and heartfelt lyrics. The song tells the story of a soldier struggling to readjust to civilian life after experiencing the horrors of war. The music is somber and reflective, creating a sense of empathy and understanding. "Walking on a Thin Line" reached number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating that Huey Lewis and the News could tackle serious subjects without losing their audience. It's a song that encourages listeners to think about the challenges faced by veterans and to offer them the support they need. If you're looking for a song that's both moving and thought-provoking, "Walking on a Thin Line" is definitely worth a listen.

10. "Heart and Soul"

Last but not least, we have "Heart and Soul," a cover song that Huey Lewis and the News made their own. Originally performed by Exile, Huey Lewis and the News's version, released in 1983, is a high-energy, rock-infused rendition that's impossible not to dance to. It's a testament to the band's ability to take a song and make it their own, injecting it with their signature energy and style.

What makes Huey Lewis and the News's version of "Heart and Soul" so successful is their energetic performance and unique arrangement. The song is faster and more upbeat than the original, with a driving rhythm and a catchy chorus that's impossible to resist. The music video, featuring the band members performing in a lively and energetic setting, further enhances the song's appeal. "Heart and Soul" reached number eight on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that Huey Lewis and the News could conquer the charts with both original songs and covers. It's a song that's guaranteed to get you moving and grooving, making it a perfect way to end our list. If you're looking for a high-energy, feel-good tune that will put a smile on your face, "Heart and Soul" is the perfect choice.

So there you have it, guys! Huey Lewis and the News's top 10 hits, ranked and explored. These songs are more than just catchy tunes; they're a soundtrack to a generation, filled with memories, emotions, and good vibes. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering their music, there's no denying the impact that Huey Lewis and the News had on the music world. So crank up the volume, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready to relive the magic of the 80s!