Gary Hoey

Born on August 23, 1960, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Gary Hoey developed an early interest in music. At fourteen, he frequented the Berklee College of Music in Boston, seeking lessons and opportunities to learn. He left high school to focus on music, playing in local clubs and teaching guitar. In 1987, Hoey auditioned for Ozzy Osbourne, who was looking for a new guitarist, and although the position went to Zakk Wylde, Osbourne suggested Hoey move to Los Angeles. Hoey took this advice, relocating to Los Angeles to advance his musical career.

In 1990, Hoey co-founded the band Heavy Bones with Joel Ellis, Rex Tennyson, and Frankie Banali. The band released their debut album in 1992 before disbanding. Hoey then released his album “Animal Instinct” in 1993, which featured a cover of Focus’s “Hocus Pocus” that reached the top five on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. This success was followed by contributions to the “Endless Summer II” soundtrack in 1995. Throughout his career, Hoey has toured and recorded with notable artists including Brian May, Ted Nugent, Foreigner, Joe Satriani, The Doobie Brothers, and Steve Vai. He also supported Jeff Beck on the U.S. leg of his 2010 tour.

Hoey’s musical direction shifted towards blues rock with his 2008 release, “Fade to Blues.” In 2012, he played on and co-wrote songs for Lita Ford’s album “Living Like a Runaway,” also touring with her to support the record. His 2019 album, “Neon Highway Blues,” debuted at number two on the U.S. Billboard Blues Albums Chart, showcasing his continued presence in the blues rock genre. His latest album, “Avalanche,” released in 2025, features vocal contributions from Lita Ford and his son, Ian Hoey, marking a return to his rock roots.