Huey Lewis Had a Surprising Hard Rock Mentor

Huey Lewis has walked the line between rock and pop for most of his career. However, some might be surprised to find out he had a notable mentor from the hard rock world.

Lewis shared in a new interview with Songfacts that he was close with the late Thin Lizzy singer/bassist Phil Lynott. Lewis heaped loads of praise on Thin Lizzy calling them “unbelievable” and an incredible live band. The singer also called Lynott “an amazing rock star” that he still misses.

“He took me under his wing and really taught me everything – not musically, necessarily – but everything about being a ‘rock-and-roll star,’ if you will,” said Lewis. ” … He taught me everything about how to deal with your band, your crew, the critics, the record label, management, fans.”

Lewis had worked on some music with Lynott in late 1985 when the Irish singer was in the United States. Tragically, Lynott died shortly after this session on January 4, 1986.

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Back in May, Lewis received quite the shout-out from the Foo Fighters. During their livestream event Preparing Music For Concerts, the band played a spontaneous cover/jam of “Workin’ For A Livin’.” It was kicked off by guitarist Chris Shiflett. He sang the hook, “I’m takin’ what they’re givin’/Cause I’m workin’ for a livin’” while playing the song’s riff. This was met with major approval by guitarist Pat Smear. Dave Grohl then asks if the song was on Huey Lewis & the News’ hit 1983 album Sports. Smear clarified “Workin’ For A Livin’” was released pre-Sports and said, “I love ‘Sports’…the record!” not to be confused with any athletic endeavor.

Lewis took to Twitter following the livestream and wrote, “Thank you to the @foofighters for the flattering words about ‘Workin’ For A Livin’,’ ‘Sports,’ and our music in general. It was an honor to be talked about in your ‘Preparing Music For Concerts’ video.”

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