Released in 1983, Huey Lewis and the News’ Sports quickly became one of the defining albums of the decade, packed with hits that are still radio staples today. But even superfans might not know these five fascinating facts about this iconic record.
1. Cleveland Wasn’t Always the Heart of Rock and Roll
The idea for “The Heart of Rock & Roll” came after the band played a gig in Cleveland, a city they initially underestimated. The original lyric celebrated Cleveland, but Huey Lewis broadened it to “the heart of rock and roll is still beating” to recognize vibrant music scenes across the U.S. Fun fact: regional versions of the song even name-dropped cities like Toronto, New Haven, and St. Louis!
2. The Mystery Woman in “I Want a New Drug”
The unforgettable woman in the “I Want a New Drug” music video is actress Signy Coleman, whose mother was a friend of Lewis’s mother, and she also starred in the video for “Heart and Soul.” Her recurring appearances gave fans a subtle connection between the band’s iconic visuals.
3. A Production Style Ahead of Its Time
The band experimented with modern production techniques, like using the LinnDrum machine, to craft a sound that fused old-school rock with 80s tech. This innovative approach helped songs like “I Want a New Drug” and “Bad Is Bad” stand out as fresh yet timeless.
4. A Bar with a Story
The album cover features the band at the 2 AM Club in Mill Valley, California, where they honed their chops before making it big. The bar was chosen because the band felt it reflected where most people watched sports – adding another layer to the album’s playful title.
5. Hits Built for Radio
Huey Lewis openly admitted the album was designed with one goal in mind: creating radio-friendly singles. The band aimed for hits on every track, and it worked, producing four Top 10 singles, including “Heart and Soul,” “If This Is It,” and “Walking on a Thin Line.”
Packed with energy, relatable lyrics, and clever production, it’s no wonder Sports spent 160 weeks on the Billboard charts and became 7× Platinum. The heart of rock and roll, indeed.
