Eddie Rabbit
Eddie Rabbitt blended country, pop, and rock into one of the most successful crossover careers of the 1980s. A gifted songwriter and performer, he became known for his smooth vocals, infectious melodies, and chart-topping hits that brought country music to a wider audience.
FEATURED SONGS:
• I Love a Rainy Night
• Drivin' My Life Away
• Every Which Way but Loose
• Step By Step
• Someone Could Lose a Heart Tonight
• You and I (with Crystal Gayle)
• Suspicions
• On Second Thought
Brooklyn, New York, USA
1975–1998
LEGENDS
FULL BIOGRAPHY
Born Edward Thomas Rabbitt on November 27, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York, Eddie Rabbitt grew up in a family that loved Irish folk and country music. After moving to Nashville in the late 1960s, he first found success as a songwriter, penning Elvis Presley's hit "Kentucky Rain" along with songs recorded by Ronnie Milsap and others.
Signing as a recording artist in the mid-1970s, Rabbitt quickly established himself with a string of country hits. His career reached its peak during the early 1980s with crossover classics like "I Love a Rainy Night," "Drivin' My Life Away," and "Every Which Way but Loose." His polished sound helped bridge the gap between traditional country and mainstream pop audiences.
Despite battling lung cancer later in life, Rabbitt continued recording until his death in 1998. His influence can still be heard in modern country artists who blend traditional storytelling with contemporary production.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
• 17 No. 1 Billboard Country singles
• Grammy Award winner
• Over 30 million records sold worldwide
• Multiple Platinum and Gold-certified albums
• ACM and CMA award winner
• Wrote Elvis Presley's hit "Kentucky Rain"
• One of country music's biggest crossover stars of the 1980s
INFLUENCED BY
• Elvis Presley
• Roger Miller
• Merle Haggard
• Glen Campbell
• Jerry Reed
• Irish folk music