Rob Hyman is an American singer, songwriter, and musician, best known as the co-founder, keyboardist, accordionist, and occasional lead vocalist for the rock band The Hooters. He is also widely recognized for co-writing the Grammy-nominated hit song "Time After Time" with Cyndi Lauper.
Early Life and Career Born in Merion, Pennsylvania, Hyman began his musical career in the Philadelphia area. He met future bandmate Eric Bazilian while attending the University of Pennsylvania, and they began collaborating on various musical projects, developing a distinctive sound that would later define The Hooters.
The Hooters In 1980, Hyman co-founded The Hooters with Eric Bazilian. The band quickly gained popularity in the Philadelphia club scene, known for their energetic live shows and unique sound incorporating instruments like the melodica and accordion, often played by Hyman. The Hooters achieved national and international success in the mid-1980s with hits such as "And We Danced," "Day by Day," and "Johnny B." Hyman served as a primary songwriter, often co-writing with Bazilian, and provided lead vocals on several of the band's most popular songs. The band famously opened the US Live Aid concert in Philadelphia in 1985, further cementing their place in music history. The Hooters continued to release albums and tour extensively, particularly in Europe, for decades.
"Time After Time" and Other Collaborations Beyond The Hooters, Hyman's most significant songwriting contribution came in 1983 when he co-wrote "Time After Time" with Cyndi Lauper for her debut album, She's So Unusual. The song became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, earned a Grammy Award nomination for Song of the Year, and has been widely covered and performed by numerous artists, becoming a pop standard. Hyman also contributed as a musician to Lauper's album, playing melodica on the track.
Throughout his career, Hyman has continued to perform and record with The Hooters, participating in their album releases and extensive international tours. He has also occasionally collaborated with other artists and pursued various musical projects, maintaining his reputation as a versatile musician and prolific songwriter.