Huey Lewis: Life After Losing His Hearing

Huey Lewis has officially declared that music is no longer a part of his life, eight years after he lost significant hearing ability due to Meniere’s disease. The iconic singer, known for his energetic performances and catchy hits, experienced a gradual decline in his hearing, losing the use of his right ear in the 1990s. However, when his left ear also shut down in 2018, it marked a definitive end to his musical career.

The Impact of Hearing Loss

In a candid discussion on the podcast Inside of You, Lewis opened up about the profound changes his life has undergone since his hearing loss. Although he remains hopeful for future medical and technological advancements that could assist him, the reality is that music has become a distant memory.

First Signs of Hearing Loss

Reflecting on his initial experience with hearing impairment, Lewis recalled a visit to a renowned ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, whom his father had recommended. The doctor’s blunt advice to “get used to it” left Lewis in disbelief. As a musician and singer, he felt the weight of losing his hearing acutely. “You only need one ear,” the doctor had told him, citing famous musicians like Jimi Hendrix and Brian Wilson who thrived despite similar challenges.

Adapting to Change

Despite his apprehensions, Lewis managed to perform for 25 years with hearing from just one ear. However, the loss of his left ear left him effectively deaf without technology. He now uses a cochlear implant in his left ear and a hearing aid in the right, both of which are designed to connect with phones and computers. “What has that done? Well, changed my life,” he admitted. “Music is not part of my life anymore. It’s a hard pill to swallow.”

The Distortion of Sound

Lewis described the challenges of using his hearing devices, noting that they distort human speech, making people sound as if they’ve inhaled helium. Music, once a source of joy, has become frustrating for him; although he can recognize beats and melodies, he finds it impossible to enjoy them fully. “Music used to be fun. Now it’s like, ‘I’m gonna try so hard to get it,’ and it just ends up frustrating for me… I can’t feel the warmth, you know?”

Emotional Toll

The emotional ramifications of his hearing loss have been significant, leading to episodes of depression, particularly in the first six months following his diagnosis. He expressed a longing to perform again, wistfully noting how his former bandmates have continued to thrive in the music industry.

Finding New Passions

In light of his changed circumstances, Lewis has taken up fishing, which he describes as a way of “conducting nature.” He emphasized that while he misses the excitement of performing live, he has had enriching experiences through fishing and meeting new people along the way. “I miss doing a show once in a while; I miss the camaraderie of the fellas,” he shared. “But, man, I’ve fished so many great places and had so many great experiences.”

Hope for the Future

When asked about potential advancements in hearing technology, Lewis expressed cautious optimism. He mentioned ongoing research into Meniere’s disease, noting that treatments remain elusive. However, he highlighted the prospect of new cochlear implants that could be implanted internally, allowing for greater freedom in daily life. “It means you can swim, you can sleep at night,” he explained, reflecting on the inconveniences of his current devices.

Conclusion

Huey Lewis’s journey through hearing loss has reshaped his identity and altered his relationship with music. While he grapples with the emotional weight of this transition, he also embraces new experiences and remains hopeful for advancements that may one day enhance his quality of life. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

FAQs

What caused Huey Lewis’s hearing loss?

Huey Lewis’s hearing loss is attributed to Meniere’s disease, which affected his right ear in the 1990s and his left ear in 2018.

How has Lewis adapted to his hearing loss?

Lewis uses a cochlear implant in his left ear and a hearing aid in his right ear to manage his hearing impairment.

What does Huey Lewis miss the most about his music career?

Lewis misses performing live shows and the camaraderie of touring with his bandmates.

What new interests has Huey Lewis pursued?

Lewis has taken up fishing, which he describes as a rewarding and enriching experience, allowing him to connect with nature.

Is there hope for future treatments for Meniere’s disease?

While treatments for Meniere’s disease are still being researched, Lewis remains hopeful for advancements in medical technology that could improve his situation.