What makes Hip to Be Square by Huey Lewis and the News notable?

'Hip to Be Square' achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim for its catchy, radio-friendly sound. The song has also been referenced in pop culture, notably featured in the film 'American Psycho,' which highlighted its ironic juxtaposition with themes of conformity. Released on October 6, 1986, 'Hip to Be Square' came during Huey Lewis and the News' commercial peak, following their successful album 'Fore!' from 1986. The band was already well-known for their energetic sound and engaging performances, solidifying their status as pop-rock icons in the mid-80s.

How many songs are on Hip to Be Square?

Hip to Be Square has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Hip to Be Square

Huey Lewis and the News · 1986

7 min · 2 tracks · hard rock

A vibrant blend of rock and pop that captures the exuberance of mid-80s America with catchy hooks and upbeat rhythms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hip to Be Square — The title track encapsulates the album's playful take on suburban life and conformity, blending infectious melodies with sharp lyrics about embracing mainstream values.
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Some of My Lies Are True (remix) — This remix adds a fresh twist to the original song, showcasing the band's knack for catchy hooks while exploring themes of deceit and authenticity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong hooks and energetic performance but lacks depth in its brief format.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent horn section that punctuates the chorus, adding to its upbeat feel.
The song's verses are structured with a call-and-response dynamic between the lead vocals and backing harmonies.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — The song solidified the band's popularity during their commercial peak.
Themes: suburban conformity· mid-80s optimism· playful deception
Career context: Released on October 6, 1986, 'Hip to Be Square' came during Huey Lewis and the News' commercial peak, following their successful album 'Fore!' from 1986. The band was already well-known for their energetic sound and engaging performances, solidifying their status as pop-rock icons in the mid-80s.
Stylistic neighbors: The B-52's· Hall & Oates· Chicago