Chris Hayes
Chris Hayes | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Christopher John Hayes |
| Born | November 24, 1957 California, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Guitarist, songwriter |
| Instruments | Guitar, vocals |
| Years active | 1970s–2001 |
| Associated acts | Huey Lewis and the News |
Christopher John Hayes (born November 24, 1957) is an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He is best known as the lead guitarist and a founding member of the rock band Huey Lewis and the News, with whom he performed from 1979 to 2001. Hayes co-wrote several of the band’s most successful songs, including The Power of Love, I Want a New Drug, and Hip to Be Square.
Early life
Hayes was born in 1957 in California. He grew up in the Bay Area and began playing guitar as a teenager, developing a style influenced by blues, soul, and rock. Before joining Huey Lewis and the News, Hayes played in several local bands, including Soundhole, which also featured future members of the News.
Career
Huey Lewis and the News (1979–2001)
In 1979, Hayes joined forces with Huey Lewis, Sean Hopper, Bill Gibson, and Mario Cipollina to form Huey Lewis and the News. The band rose to prominence in the early 1980s with their breakthrough album Picture This (1982) and achieved worldwide fame with Sports (1983), which sold over 10 million copies in the United States.
As lead guitarist, Hayes became known for his melodic solos and energetic stage presence. He also contributed backing vocals and co-wrote many of the band’s biggest hits, including The Power of Love (featured in the film Back to the Future) and Hip to Be Square.
Hayes continued to record and tour with the group throughout the 1980s and 1990s. His final album with the band was Plan B (2001). Shortly afterward, Hayes stepped away from the group.
Departure from the band
Hayes left Huey Lewis and the News in 2000, citing personal reasons. In interviews, he explained that heavy touring made it difficult to raise a family, and following a divorce and a decision to stop drinking, he wanted to prioritize being present for his children.[1]
Later life
Following his departure from the band, Hayes chose to live a quieter life away from the public spotlight. He has resided in Reno, Nevada, and Springfield, Oregon, where he spends his time fishing, playing guitar casually, and keeping in touch with his former bandmates.[2]
Though retired from full-time performing, Hayes has expressed fondness for Huey Lewis and the News and has said he would consider participating in a reunion if Lewis’ health allowed.[2]
Legacy
Hayes is often credited with shaping the signature sound of Huey Lewis and the News through his guitar work and songwriting. Though not always in the public eye, fans and critics alike regard him as an underappreciated figure of 1980s rock.[1]
Personal life
Hayes has children from two marriages. He has spoken about how his decision to leave touring was motivated by a desire to be an active father.[1]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "Huey Lewis and the News' Chris Hayes: "Am I an unappreciated guitar hero? Probably. But that's OK"". Guitar World. May 2023. Retrieved 26 August 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Chris Hayes: Am I an unappreciated guitar hero? Probably, but that's OK". Inkl. May 2023. Retrieved 26 August 2025.
External links
Template:Huey Lewis and the News
References
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