Did you realize that the smash hit “That’s Just the Way it Is” by Bruce Hornsby and the Range is 30 years old? Let’s take a closer look at Bruce and his journey to fame and fortune. All 30+ years of it!
Bruce was born in Williamsburg, VA in 1954 in a modest home, growing up playing the piano and enrolling at the University of Richmond like every other middle class kid. His parents encouraged him to attend the prestigious Berklee College of Music, then the University of Miami, from which he graduated in 1977.
It was Bruce’s brother that started a garage band, asking Bruce to join them in 1979. Bruce would eventually leave his brother’s band and began playing solo gigs in and around Williamsburg. He eventually moved to Los Angeles, working as a studio or session pianist, eventually joining 80s star Sheena Easton as a member of her backup band.
In 1984, Bruce formed the ‘Bruce Hornsby and the Rage,’ getting signed by RCA records. They would release “That’s Just the Way it Is” as his first single from his debut album. The song’s success gave him the financial and label independence to tour and releases numerous albums.
Bruce has toured with the Grateful Dead, playing in over 100 shows. He’s also a big sports fan, taking in many college basketball games in the Virginia area. You just might spot Bruce at an upcoming St. Louis Cardinal game this upcoming season; he’s friends with the front office.
Bruce has remained married to Kathy, the love of his life. Together that have two grown sons who are college athletes.
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Photo credit: Gajus / Shutterstock.com