Huey Lewis, best known as the frontman for the band Huey Lewis and The News, has an estimated net worth of $25 million as of 2024. His fortune has been built primarily through his music career, including hit albums, royalties, and live performances. Although Lewis has faced health challenges in recent years, his legacy in rock music has sustained his wealth, with a catalog of iconic hits that continue to generate income.
Early Career and Musical Breakthrough
Born Hugh Anthony Cregg III on July 5, 1950, in New York City, Huey Lewis initially played harmonica in local bands before moving to California to join the music scene. His career took off in the late 1970s when he formed Huey Lewis and The News. The band gained widespread popularity in the 1980s with the release of their breakthrough album, Sports (1983), which became one of the best-selling albums of the decade, propelling Lewis into stardom.
Major Sources of Huey Lewis’s Wealth
Lewis’s net worth is the result of decades of success in music, with earnings coming from record sales, royalties, live performances, and business ventures.
1. Music Career and Album Sales
Huey Lewis and The News achieved massive success during the 1980s and 1990s, with chart-topping hits that continue to generate revenue:
- Sports (1983): The band’s third album, Sports, was a commercial powerhouse, featuring hits like “The Heart of Rock & Roll,” “If This Is It,” and “I Want a New Drug.” It sold over 10 million copies worldwide and remains a classic in rock history.
- Fore! (1986): The follow-up album, Fore!, included more hits, such as “Stuck with You” and “Hip to Be Square.” The album’s success cemented the band’s popularity, selling millions of copies and adding to Lewis’s income through both record sales and radio royalties.
2. Royalties and Licensing
Lewis’s music continues to earn royalties, particularly from licensing deals. One of his most iconic songs, “The Power of Love,” featured in the movie Back to the Future (1985), remains a cultural staple and is frequently licensed for use in films, commercials, and streaming platforms. His catalog’s ongoing popularity ensures a steady flow of income from royalties and licensing, even though he is no longer actively touring.
3. Live Performances and Tours
Touring was a major source of income for Lewis, with Huey Lewis and The News frequently performing to sold-out crowds throughout the 1980s and beyond. Although Meniere’s disease, a debilitating hearing disorder, forced Lewis to stop performing in 2018, his live shows contributed significantly to his net worth over the years. Ticket sales, merchandise, and live album releases were major income sources during his touring years.
4. Business Ventures and Investments
Lewis has diversified his wealth through investments in real estate and other ventures. Known to have properties in Montana and California, he has invested in assets that appreciate over time. His financial portfolio reportedly includes shares in local businesses and music-related ventures, ensuring a steady income beyond his music career.
Health Challenges and Financial Impact
In 2018, Lewis revealed that he was suffering from Meniere’s disease, which affects his hearing and has prevented him from performing. While this has impacted his ability to tour and record new music, his existing catalog and royalties have continued to support his income. Lewis has been open about his struggles with the disorder but remains optimistic, focusing on managing his health and enjoying life outside of the spotlight.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Lewis has also been involved in philanthropy, supporting organizations related to health and music education. His legacy in the rock genre, particularly through his iconic 1980s hits, continues to inspire fans and new musicians alike. Huey Lewis and The News have left a lasting imprint on rock history, and Lewis’s contributions have been recognized by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
With a net worth of $25 million, Huey Lewis’s wealth is a testament to his enduring success in music and his ability to connect with fans through timeless hits. Although health issues have affected his recent career, his past achievements and wise financial management have enabled him to sustain his wealth.
Click here to know more.
