For vinyl enthusiasts and music lovers, the thrill of uncovering a hidden gem in a record store’s depths is unmatched. It’s like unearthing a treasure, especially when you stumble upon a classic album like Eddie Money’s Life for the Taking on vinyl. This 1978 release, the sophomore effort from the beloved rocker, holds a special place in the hearts of many, and finding it in the bins is always a win.
My recent relocation and subsequent exploration of Oklahoma City’s music scene led me to Guestroom Records, a haven for both new and used vinyl. Asking the owner, Justin Sowers, to point me towards their “trash” section – a term of endearment for bargain bins in the vinyl world – proved incredibly fruitful. Guestroom Records boasts an impressive selection, and their budget-friendly vinyl section is a treasure trove for collectors. Amongst classic finds from Rod Stewart, Pete Townshend, and others, I unearthed a pristine copy of Eddie Money’s Life for the Taking vinyl LP for a mere three dollars. This wasn’t just any record; it was a gateway back to a pivotal moment in rock history.
Eddie Money, Life for the Taking (Columbia Records), 1978
Eddie Money Life for the Taking vinyl record album cover, 1978 Columbia Records release.
In 1978, Eddie Money was riding high on the success of his self-titled debut album. That record, a double-platinum sensation, had saturated the airwaves with hits like “Baby Hold On” and “Two Tickets to Paradise.” The pressure was on for his second album, Life for the Taking, to avoid the dreaded sophomore slump. Money delivered an album that both solidified his rock credentials and showcased his versatility.
The album opens with the compelling and darker title track, immediately signaling a slight shift in tone from his debut. Tracks like “Can’t Keep a Good Man Down” and “Rock and Roll the Place” deliver the high-energy rock anthems fans expected. However, Life for the Taking is also notable for its stylistic range, a point of contention for some critics at the time. The Top 40 hit “Maybe I’m a Fool” embraces a distinct disco influence, while “Maureen” evokes a classic 50s vibe. This eclectic mix, however, is precisely what gives the album its enduring charm. Tracks like “Gimme Some Water,” reminiscent of Bad Company’s AOR sound, and the poignant ballad “Call On Me” stand out as highlights, showcasing the album’s depth.
Produced by the legendary Bruce Botnick, known for his work with The Doors and Steve Perry, Life for the Taking actually charted higher than Eddie Money’s debut, though it sold slightly less. Despite this, it still achieved platinum status, a testament to its impact and quality. For many, including myself, Life for the Taking packs just as much punch as his debut, if not more. The songs remain vibrant, and the album as a whole stands as a significant achievement within Eddie Money’s impressive catalog of gold and platinum records. Finding Eddie Money Vinyl, especially albums like Life for the Taking, is a rewarding experience for any collector, offering a tangible connection to rock history.
Eddie Money, Life for the Taking (Columbia Records), 1978
Close-up of Eddie Money Life for the Taking vinyl album artwork, showcasing the vintage record’s detail.
(4/5) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Life for the Taking Track List
SIDE A
Life for the Taking (E. Money) – 4:48
Can’t Keep a Good Man Down (E. Money, D. Alexander, C. Solberg) – 3:40
Nightmare (E. Money, J. Lyon) 4:23
Gimme Some Water (E. Money) – 3:38
Rock and Roll the Place (E. Money, J. Lyon) – 3:05
SIDE B
Maybe I’m a Fool (E. Money, L. Chiate, L. Garrett, R. Taylor) – 3:05
Love the Way You Love Me (E. Money, S. Howard) – 3:38
Maureen (E. Money, E. Makaway, L. Chiate, C. Solberg) – 3:35
Nobody (R. Money, J. Lyon) – 4:40
Call On Me (J. Storch, E. Money) – 6:03
