Album Information Section

Album Title: Sports

Artist: Huey Lewis and the News

Original Release Date: September 13, 1983

Label: Unknown Label

Genres: Rock, Pop Rock

Track Listing

• 1. The Heart of Rock & Roll (5:05)
• 2. Heart and Soul (4:12)
• 3. Bad Is Bad (3:48)
• 4. I Want a New Drug (4:46)
• 5. Walking on a Thin Line (5:11)
• 6. Finally Found a Home (3:44)
• 7. If This Is It (3:54)
• 8. You Crack Me Up (3:43)
• 9. Honky Tonk Blues (3:21)

Recording Information

The album “Sports” was recorded at the famed Sound City Studios in Van Nuys, California, a location known for its rich history of recording classic albums. The recording session took place in the spring of 1983, coinciding with the band’s rise to fame.

The production was led by the accomplished Huey Lewis himself, along with David Foster, a notable figure in the music industry, recognized for his work with various artists across genres. The engineering was handled by Mike B. Theiss, who played a crucial role in capturing the crisp, clean sound that the album is known for.

Notable recording techniques included the use of analog tape, which contributed to the warm and lively sound of the album. The band also utilized live instrumentation, creating a vibrant atmosphere that resonated through each track. An interesting production note is that Lewis wanted to capture the essence of live performances, which led to several tracks being recorded in a live setting with a full band.

Band Context

At the time of the album’s release, Huey Lewis and the News were experiencing a significant surge in popularity following their previous album, “Picture This.” Formed in 1979, the band was known for their blend of rock, pop, and blues influences, characterized by catchy hooks and energetic performances. The lineup during the “Sports” era included Huey Lewis (lead vocals, harmonica), Johnny Colla (guitar, saxophone, backing vocals), Bill Gibson (drums, backing vocals), Mario Cipollina (bass guitar), and Chris Hayes (lead guitar).

Before the release of “Sports,” the band had garnered attention with hits like “Do You Believe in Love” and “Hope You Love Me Like You Say You Do.” The success of “Sports” propelled them into mainstream recognition, establishing them as one of the leading bands of the 1980s. The album produced several hit singles, including “The Heart of Rock & Roll” and “I Want a New Drug,” which contributed to the band’s ascent in the music charts and solidified their place in rock history.

Track Commentary