Mario Cipollina

Mario Cipollina is an American bassist best known for his work in the rock and blues genres. Born on June 10, 1954, in San Francisco, California, he gained prominence as a member of the influential rock band Huey Lewis and the News during the 1980s. Cipollina's signature slap bass style and melodic playing contributed significantly to the band's sound, particularly on their hit albums "Sports" (1983) and "Fore!" (1986), which included chart-topping singles like "The Power of Love" and "Hip to Be Square." After his tenure with Huey Lewis and the News, Cipollina explored various musical avenues, including forming the band The Mario Cipollina Band and collaborating with artists across different genres. His musicianship and distinctive style have left a lasting mark on rock and blues music, influencing bass players who followed. Cipollina's contributions to the music scene extend beyond performance; he is also recognized for his songwriting and production work. Overall, his impact is reflected in the enduring popularity of the band's music and his role in shaping the sound of 1980s rock.