Eddie Money, born Edward Joseph Mahoney on March 21, 1949, in Brooklyn, New York, carved his own path from law enforcement to rock stardom. While his initial aspirations leaned towards a musical career, family tradition led him to follow his father’s footsteps into the New York City Police Department after high school.
After serving as a police officer for two years starting in 1968, the allure of music became too strong to ignore. Edward Joseph Mahoney traded his badge for a microphone, putting his law enforcement career on hold to pursue his true passion. He relocated to Berkeley, California, a hub for burgeoning artists, and began honing his craft in local clubs. This pivotal move marked the beginning of his transformation into the artist we know as Eddie Money.
In 1976, a name change from Mahoney to Money coincided with a stroke of luck. Performing at an event produced by the renowned promoter Bill Graham, Eddie Money caught Graham’s eye. This encounter proved transformative. Graham, a legendary figure in the music industry, took Eddie under his wing, acting as both mentor and manager. Graham recognized Eddie’s raw talent and star quality, famously stating, “Eddie Money has it all…not only can he sing, write and play, but he is a natural performer.” This endorsement from Graham was instrumental in launching Eddie Money’s career.
The collaboration with Bill Graham opened doors, culminating in a recording contract with Columbia Records. 1977 marked Eddie Money’s explosive arrival onto the music scene with his self-titled debut album, “Eddie Money.” Fans immediately connected with his distinctive voice and blend of rock and roll with heartland sensibilities. The album achieved double platinum status, fueled by chart-topping hits such as “Baby Hold On” and “Two Tickets to Paradise,” anthems that defined a generation and solidified Eddie Money’s place in rock history.
The momentum from his debut carried Eddie Money through the late 70s and into the 80s, delivering a consistent stream of Top 40 hits. He wasn’t just a voice on the radio; Eddie Money became a fixture on MTV, pioneering creative and memorable music videos for songs like “Think I’m in Love” and “Shakin’.” His visual presence amplified his music, making him a true multimedia star.
1986 saw the release of “Can’t Hold Back,” another platinum-selling album that further cemented Eddie Money’s legacy. This album featured the iconic duet “Take Me Home Tonight” with Ronnie Spector, a Grammy-nominated track that soared to number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. “I Wanna Go Back,” another hit from the same album, showcased his versatility and enduring appeal. These songs became staples of classic rock radio and continue to resonate with audiences today.
Throughout his career, Eddie Money remained a dynamic live performer, captivating audiences across the country. His long-standing tradition of opening the summer concert season at the DTE Energy Music Theatre in Detroit for nearly two decades became a testament to his enduring popularity. Fans flocked to see Eddie Money, eager to experience the energy and passion that defined his performances for over 30 years. Even long-time attendees attested to his consistent signature style and unwavering enthusiasm on stage.
Beyond music, Eddie Money embraced television, showcasing his personality and humor on hit shows like “The King of Queens,” where he performed for his friend Kevin James, and “The Drew Carey Show,” playing Mimi’s ex-husband. These appearances broadened his reach and demonstrated his crossover appeal beyond the music world.
In recent years, family joined Eddie Money on stage, most notably his daughter, Jesse Money. Jesse, who gained recognition on MTV’s “Rock The Cradle,” is a talented vocalist who has embraced her father’s musical path. Touring with Eddie Money, Jesse provided backup vocals and added a fresh dynamic to the duet “Take Me Home Tonight,” highlighting the family legacy within his music. Eddie and his wife Laurie also have four sons – Zachary, Joseph, Desmond, and Julian, further extending the Money family.
Eddie Money’s brand of blue-collar rock and roll transcended generations. Having sold over 28 million records, his music permeated popular culture. Eddie Money’s songs found their way into numerous movies and television shows and gained a new wave of fans through inclusion in popular video games like “Grand Theft Auto” and “Guitar Hero,” ensuring his music continues to reach new audiences. Eddie Money’s journey from a New York City police officer to a rock and roll icon is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and enduring connection with fans worldwide.
