Umphrey’s McGee Replicate David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance” with Huey Lewis and Jeff Coffin

Put on your red shoes and dance the blues! Umphrey’s McGee have released their replication of David Bowie’s acclaimed post-disco party-starter “Let’s Dance.” The Chicago-based veterans’ take on the classic tune, features a lyricall lead from Huey Lewis, which served as his final studio session before Meniere’s disease and hearing loss brought his career to a halt. 

Umphrey’s McGee and Lewis’ relationship dates back to 2006, when the acclaimed musician joined the band during their appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, presenting an ambitious take on their Safety In Numbers originator, “Women, Wine, and Song.” “It was a real thrill to sing this with the Umphrey’s guys,” offered Lewis via press release. “I have been a fan from the first time I heard them, and was keen to join them for this tune.”

“Let’s Dance,” also features Dave Matthews Band’s Jeff Coffin, who adds to the single, that was originally recorded for Howard Stern’s David Bowie Tribute on SiriusXM. “I still can’t believe that we actually got to collaborate with these two musical powerhouses on one of my favorite David Bowie tunes of all time,” says Umphrey’s Mcgee guitarist and singer, Brendan Bayliss. 

“I remember seeing the video for ‘Let’s Dance’ for the first time on MTV when I was a kid, probably right before or right after one of the many hits Huey Lewis and The News had out at the same time. Getting a chance to record the song with Huey is a dream come true,” he concluded. 

In addition to this new single, the band has just begun their Winter 2024 tour featuring the return of drummer Kris Myers–after sitting out the majority of 2023 due to rotator cuff surgery and rehabilitation. View dates and purchase tickets here. 

Listen to UM’s take on “Let’s Dance” and watch their 2006 Jimmy Kimmel Live!, below.