Huey Lewis says- "Music Is No Longer Part Of My Life"
I had the pleasure of meeting Huey Lewis, who turned 76 on July 5, this past October at the Chiller Theatre Expo in Parsippany, New Jersey.
I wanted to set up an interview with him for my show, Music 101 With Alexxis Steele, but his handler told me that would not be possible because of Huey's hearing loss. He was there signing photos for fans and taking part in photo opportunities.
Today, I ran across an article in which Huey said, “Music is not part of my life anymore,” after losing his hearing.
That is really a sad statement coming from someone who has spent the better part of his life as a singer, songwriter and musician creating music for millions of people.
Unfortunately, Huey has suffered from vertigo and tinnitus associated with Ménière's disease for decades. His hearing progressively deteriorated to the point that he has been basically unable to hear music for years. He now has a cochlear implant that helps him understand speech and conversations, but music can sound distorted and unrecognizable.
My question to the musicians out there — including myself — is this: Are you doing anything to protect your hearing? And should you?
My answer is an astounding YES!
Years of being onstage or in rehearsal rooms with Marshall stacks and amplifiers blaring at high decibel levels can take a toll. Add all the concerts we attend and all the nights we spend going out to see other bands, and musicians can accumulate a tremendous amount of exposure to loud sound.
Using some form of hearing protection, such as quality earplugs designed for musicians, can help protect your hearing so you can continue playing, performing and enjoying the music you love.
Huey's situation was complicated by an inner-ear disease, and unfortunately there came a point when he could no longer hear music the way he once did.
That makes me sad for a man who gave us so much great music over the years, including songs like “The Power of Love,” “The Heart of Rock & Roll” and “Do You Believe in Love,” just to name a few.
So I would simply like to say:
Thank you, Huey, for all the years of great music you've brought to your fans.
— Alexxis Steele
Music 101 With Alexxis Steele
