Eddie Money, a name synonymous with relatable rock anthems and catchy hooks, gifted the music world with a string of Hot 100 hits across three decades. Far from letting fame inflate his ego, Money embraced his role as rock radio’s approachable everyman. His songs resonated with audiences because they were authentic, energetic, and undeniably fun. This exploration delves into the Songs Of Eddie Money, ranking his top 10 tracks that cemented his legacy in rock history.
In a candid 2018 interview with Rolling Stone, Eddie Money, affectionately calling himself “Grandpa Money,” offered glimpses into his down-to-earth personality. He spoke not just of music, but of everyday topics like SportsCenter and reality TV, peppered with his characteristic humor. This interview revealed a man grateful for life’s simple joys, a perspective that mirrored the themes in many of his beloved songs. While acknowledging he might not have reached the same stratospheric commercial heights as some contemporaries, his positive outlook remained infectious. “The kids aren’t in jail, they’re not in rehab, nobody’s wrecked the car this week and there’s still milk in the refrigerator,” he quipped, encapsulating his grounded nature. This relatability was a key ingredient in the enduring appeal of Eddie Money’s songs.
Sadly, the music world mourned the passing of this bar-rocking legend on Friday, September 13th, at the age of 70, following a battle with esophageal cancer. Eddie Money’s music, however, continues to live on, a testament to his talent for crafting sturdy, timeless rock hits. In tribute to his remarkable career, we present a ranked countdown of his 10 greatest songs, celebrating the enduring power of Eddie Money songs.
10. “Heaven in the Back Seat” (Right Here, 1991)
Kicking off our list of Eddie Money songs is “Heaven in the Back Seat,” a track from his 1991 comeback album Right Here. Originally penned for the UK band Romeo’s Daughter and featured on the Nightmare on Elm Street V soundtrack in 1988, Money’s rendition injects his signature goofy, high-energy charm into this sleazy locker-room anthem. While the lyrics are undeniably knuckle-dragging (“She’s got what I want/ I got what she needs/ Me and my baby and the mirror makes three”), and the sound is distinctly early-90s, the song’s appeal lies in its unapologetic fun. Peaking at No. 58 on the Hot 100, “Heaven in the Back Seat” proves that even lesser-known Eddie Money songs can deliver a memorable rock experience.
9. “Walk on Water” (Nothing to Lose, 1988)
“Walk on Water,” a hit from 1988’s Nothing to Lose, exemplifies Eddie Money’s move towards an increasingly commercial sound. Co-written by Jesse Harms, Sammy Hagar’s former keyboardist, the song is drenched in quintessential 80s elements: Money’s assertive vocals, layered harmonies, and an anthemic hook. Reaching No. 9 on the charts, “Walk on Water” sustained Money’s career momentum, becoming another recognizable entry in the list of Eddie Money songs. Interestingly, despite its success, Money expressed reservations about performing the song live, particularly regarding the repeated “Na na na na na na na na na” vocal hook, initially intended for a horn section.
8. “I Wanna Go Back” (Can’t Hold Back, 1986)
Another cover on our list of Eddie Money songs is “I Wanna Go Back,” originating from the Oakland rock band Billy Satellite. Written by Billy Satellite, who released a self-titled album in 1984, the song initially achieved modest success, reaching No. 78. However, “I Wanna Go Back” gained wider recognition through two notable remakes: first by Gregg Rolie of Santana in 1985, and subsequently by Eddie Money. Despite the prominent synths characteristic of the era, this mid-tempo ballad possessed staying power. Money’s spirited rendition propelled the song to No. 14, showcasing his knack for revitalizing lesser-known tracks and making them definitive Eddie Money songs.
7. “Shakin’” (No Control, 1982)
“Shakin’,” from the No Control album in 1982, stands out as one of the Eddie Money songs he co-wrote, proving he was more than just a performer of other’s material. This infectious, Tom Petty-esque anthem is perhaps best remembered for its music video featuring Apollonia Kotero, Prince’s protégé and Purple Rain co-star, who embodies the “shakin'” in question. Anecdotes from Money himself add to the song’s lore, recounting a jealous boyfriend and karate expert who added a touch of real-life drama to the video shoot. Despite the behind-the-scenes tension, “Shakin'” became a solid hit, reaching No. 63 and solidifying its place among popular Eddie Money songs.
6. “Trinidad” (Playing for Keeps, 1980)
With its island-themed title, “Trinidad” from 1980’s Playing for Keeps might initially sound like an attempt to replicate the success of “Two Tickets to Paradise.” However, “Trinidad” carves its own niche as a grounded, driving rock track, avoiding clichés and synth excesses of the time. For those seeking 1980s rock that steers clear of over-the-top production, “Trinidad” is a prime example of Eddie Money songs delivering solid, no-frills rock. Lyrically, the song ventures into more mystical territory than usual for Money, hinting at deeper themes within its catchy rock framework.
5. “Take Me Home Tonight” (Can’t Hold Back, 1986)
“Take Me Home Tonight,” a standout track from Can’t Hold Back (1986), is a Phil Spector-influenced duet featuring Ronnie Spector herself. Cleverly incorporating the Ronettes’ classic “Be My Baby,” with Ronnie Spector even singing the iconic “Be my little baby!” tag, the song propelled Eddie Money to No. 4 on the charts. It also marked Ronnie Spector’s MTV debut, introducing her to a new generation. While essentially a colossal hook centered on a simple romantic plea, “Take Me Home Tonight” kept Eddie Money’s 80s hit streak blazing and cemented its status as one of the most recognizable Eddie Money songs.
4. “Gimme Some Water” (Life for the Taking, 1978)
For fans of Eddie Money who lean towards hard rock, exploring his earlier albums like Eddie Money, Life For the Taking, and Playing For Keeps is highly recommended. These albums showcase a rawer, edgier sound, exemplified by “Gimme Some Water” from Life for the Taking (1978). This bluesy, slide guitar-driven track, while not a major hit, evokes the sound of classic rock acts like Badfinger, Todd Rundgren, or Fleetwood Mac. “Gimme Some Water” stands as a refreshing reminder of Eddie Money’s roots-rock capabilities, a contrast to his later synth-heavy barroom anthems, yet a vital part of his catalog of songs of Eddie Money.
3. “Baby Hold On” (Eddie Money, 1977)
“Baby Hold On,” from his self-titled 1977 debut, is instantly recognizable for its powerful chorus: “Baby, hold on to me/ Whatever will be will be/ The future is ours to see.” This chest-beating anthem about perseverance reached No. 11 upon its release and has since become a classic rock staple and one of the most enduring Eddie Money songs. The song’s hypnotic, two-note guitar riff adds a unique quality, setting it apart within Eddie Money’s discography and contributing to its lasting appeal.
2. “Think I’m in Love” (No Control, 1982)
“Think I’m in Love,” from No Control (1982), bursts onto the scene with a radiant, Byrds-style intro, launching into a jangle-pop infused rocker. This track highlights how Eddie Money’s ventures into jangle pop territory often yielded his most vibrant and compelling work. Co-written with Randy Oda, known for his collaborations with Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Tom Fogerty, “Think I’m in Love” possesses a buzzy, infectious energy, placing it alongside new wave contemporaries like The Cars, The Romantics, or Nick Lowe. Among the diverse styles explored in Eddie Money songs, this jangle-pop direction proved to be one of his most successful and artistically rewarding.
1. “Two Tickets to Paradise” (Eddie Money, 1977)
Topping our list of Eddie Money songs, and arguably his most iconic track, is “Two Tickets to Paradise” from his 1977 debut album. Despite its vacation theme and appearances in popular culture, the song retains a tough, driving rock edge, far removed from typical tropical-themed songs. “Two Tickets to Paradise” thrives on its masterful arrangement, featuring the dynamic rhythm section of Steve Miller Band’s Gary Mallaber and Lonnie Turner, Jimmy Lyons’ searing guitar solo, and, of course, that unforgettable hook. As the opening track on his debut album, “Two Tickets to Paradise” was a definitive statement, launching Eddie Money’s career and remaining a concert staple until his final performances. It stands as the quintessential Eddie Money song, encapsulating his energy, songwriting talent, and enduring appeal.
