Top 10 Eddie Rabbitt Songs

Photo by Johannes Roth

Diving into the top 10 Eddie Rabbitt songs, we celebrate an exceptional songwriter and singer who distinguished himself in a music industry often dominated by larger-than-life personalities. Beginning in the 1960s, Rabbitt’s journey started with crafting songs that would be famously performed by icons like Ronnie Milsap and Elvis Presley. His talent for writing hit songs became evident when Milsap’s rendition of Rabbitt’s “Pure Love” climbed the charts, leading Elektra Records to sign him in 1975. Shortly after, Rabbitt released “You Get to Me” from his self-titled album.

His subsequent album, Rocky Mountain Music, brought him critical acclaim, showcasing his skill in creating emotionally resonant ballads. Although not yet a global star, Rabbitt had the opportunity to tour with and open for crossover icons like Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, expanding his reach. His 1978 crossover single “Every Which Way But Loose” not only topped the Country charts but also made a notable appearance on the Billboard Hot 100. Rabbitt’s music, known for its innovative blending of themes with a soft rhythm and distinctive background vocals, made a lasting impact. Unfortunately, Rabbitt’s prolific career was cut short by his untimely death from lung cancer in 1998. Here, we pay tribute to the top 10 Eddie Rabbitt songs that solidify his enduring legacy in the realm of Country music, celebrated for his masterful songwriting and compelling vocal delivery.

#10 – Suspicions

Leading off our top 10 Eddie Rabbitt songs is the chart-topping hit “Suspicions” from his album Loveline. This standout track, which climbed to the number one spot of the Billboard Country Music Charts, was the fruit of a collaborative songwriting effort between Eddie Rabbitt, David Malloy, Even Stevens, and Randy McCormick. Not only did “Suspicions” enjoy success on the country charts, but it also crossed over to peak at number thirteen on the Billboard Hot 100. Further solidifying its impact, the song was honored as Broadcast Music Incorporated’s Song of the Year in 1980.

# 9 – Drinkin’ My Baby (Off My Mind)

Another standout track that ascended to the top of the Billboard Country Music Chart is “Drinkin’ My Baby (Off My Mind),” featured on Eddie Rabbitt’s second album, Rocky Mountain Music. This song, marking Eddie’s fourth venture into country music hits, delves into the tale of a man who seeks solace in a tavern, attempting to numb his heartache with alcohol. Like many before him, this man’s recourse to drinking is a desperate bid to erase the memories of a lost love. The song’s resonance with listeners, driven by its authentic and relatable depiction of heartbreak and coping, ensured its prolonged stay on the Country Music Chart for an impressive twelve weeks.

#8 – Rocky Mountain Music

“Rocky Mountain Music,” penned by Eddie Rabbitt himself, showcases the pinnacle of his songwriting talent. This track, encapsulating the quintessential country music essence of the 1970s, offers a simple yet profound journey through Rabbitt’s life and experiences. The song concludes with a nostalgic nod to the cherished memories we all hold dear, connecting listeners with their own reflections and recollections. Further extending its reach beyond American borders, “Rocky Mountain Music” was adapted by German singer Jurgen Drews into a German version, which also enjoyed significant success, climbing to number 6 on the German charts and resonating with an international audience.

#7 – American Boy

“American Boy,” a track by Eddie Rabbitt, emerged as a significant piece in his music catalog when it was released in August 1990 as the fourth single from his album Jersey Boy. Peaking at number 11 on the country charts, this song became Rabbitt’s last to enter the top 40, marking a poignant moment in his career.

The song held a special place in the hearts of United States servicemen and their families during the tumultuous times of the 1991 Gulf War, resonating with themes of patriotism and home. Its influence extended into the political arena when Senator Bob Dole chose “American Boy” as a rallying tune during his 1996 presidential campaign against Bill Clinton, showcasing the song’s broad appeal and emotional impact.

In response to Dole’s request to use the song, Rabbitt expressed his approval, highlighting his support and the mutual respect between the artist and the politician. This endorsement led to “American Boy” becoming a staple at Dole’s political rallies, replacing previous campaign songs like “Dole Man” and Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” Moreover, Rabbitt’s connection to the song endured, as evidenced by a re-recorded version that appeared on his 1997 album Beatin’ the Odds, further cementing its legacy in his discography and its role in American cultural and political contexts.

#6 – That’s Why I Fell in Love with You

“That’s Why I Fell in Love with You,” penned by Eddie Rabbitt along with Billy Joe Walker Jr. and Even Stevens, marks a notable entry in Rabbitt’s discography. Released in April 1989 as the concluding single from his eleventh studio effort, I Wanna Dance with You, the song reflects a mature phase of Rabbitt’s musical journey. Initially considered as the third single, it was ultimately chosen as the fourth release, following the success of “We Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right,” which secured Rabbitt another top 10 accolade. Charting at number 66 on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles and number 65 on the Canadian RPM Country Singles, it became one of Rabbitt’s more modest entries since his rise to fame in 1974.

Rabbitt expressed a particular fondness for the song’s closing line, noting its emotional impact. Described as “country pop” by Jerry Sharpe and lauded for its heartfelt tribute to love by Larry Kart, the song was highlighted for its ability to resonate, particularly with female audiences, reaffirming Rabbitt’s connection with his fans through his genuine and sensitive expression.

#5 – Step by Step

“Step by Step” is a standout crossover hit by Eddie Rabbitt, marking a significant moment in his career when it was released in July 1981. Serving as both the lead single and title track of his album Step by Step, this song secured Rabbitt’s status as a major force on the country chart, achieving his ninth number one single. The song’s tenure at the top lasted a week, contributing to its 11-week stay on the country chart. Crafted by Rabbitt alongside Even Stevens and David Malloy, “Step by Step” delves into themes of courtship, with the narrator offering advice on winning over a love interest, encapsulated in the catchy chorus line “step by step, you’ll win her love.”

This track not only solidified Rabbitt’s country music success but also bolstered his crossover appeal, as evidenced by its climb to number five in the Top 40. On the charts, “Step by Step” impressively reached the number one spot on the US Hot Country Songs and performed well on other charts, including peaking at number three on the US Adult Contemporary and number five on the Billboard Hot 100. Its international appeal was noted as well, with a position of 83 on Australia’s Kent Music Report. In Canada, the song mirrored its US success, topping the RPM Country Tracks and reaching number two on the RPM Adult Contemporary Tracks and twenty-three on the RPM Top Singles.

By the end of 1981, “Step by Step” was recognized on the US Top Pop Singles year-end chart by Billboard, ranking at number 75, a testament to its wide-reaching impact and Rabbitt’s versatile artistry.

#4 – Every Which Way but Loose

“Every Which Way but Loose” showcases Eddie Rabbitt’s exceptional vocal talent, serving as the title track for the 1978 Clint Eastwood comedy. The song, which tells the tale of a whimsical romance with a free-spirited woman, resonated with audiences, climbing to the top of the Country Charts for three weeks in February 1979. Although Rabbitt didn’t originally write the song, his contributions and adjustments to the lyrics were instrumental in refining it for its release, aligning perfectly with the film’s debut.

# 3 – You and I

Featured on Eddie Rabbitt’s 1982 album Radio Romance, “You and I” stands out as a distinctive track, especially since it was reimagined as a duet with Crystal Gayle. This song weaves a narrative of enduring love, forecasting both joy and resilience in the face of future challenges. Unlike many of his other hits, “You and I” was not penned by Rabbitt himself but by the talented songwriter and musician Frank J. Myers.

Produced by David Malloy, “You and I” was released in October 1982 as the leading single from Rabbitt’s eighth studio album. The collaboration between Rabbitt and Gayle brought a unique blend of their vocal styles, propelling “You and I” to become a significant country-pop crossover hit. This duet not only showcased the artists’ harmonious synergy but also marked a memorable moment in the genre, highlighting the power of collaboration in creating timeless music.

# 2 – Drivin’ My Life Away

“Drivin’ My Life Away,” a standout track by Eddie Rabbitt, epitomizes the crossroads of country music and pop, making a significant mark on his career as a crossover artist. Released in June 1980 as the lead single from the Horizon album, Rabbitt co-wrote this iconic song with Even Stevens and David Malloy, painting a vivid picture of a truck driver’s solitary life on the road.

The song’s commercial success signaled Rabbitt’s ascent as a crossover sensation, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and paving the way for his subsequent chart-topper, “I Love a Rainy Night.” Following this triumph, Rabbitt continued to produce hits that resonated beyond the country genre, including “Step by Step” and the duet “You and I” with Crystal Gayle.

On the country charts, “Drivin’ My Life Away” secured its place as Rabbitt’s seventh number one hit, among a total of 17 chart-topping singles spanning his career from 1976 to 1990. The Recording Industry Association of America awarded the single a gold certification in 1981 for selling half a million units, and digital sales have added another 267,000 copies to its legacy.

Beyond its chart success, “Drivin’ My Life Away” has enjoyed a vibrant life in various media, contributing to the soundtrack of the 1980 movie Roadie and appearing in diverse settings from Kidsongs videos to episodes of The A-Team and films like Everybody Wants Some!!. The track also receives a nod in Rabbitt’s own 1990 hit “Running with the Wind,” further cementing its enduring impact on his music and legacy.

# 1 – I Love a Rainy Night

“I Love a Rainy Night” showcases Eddie Rabbitt’s remarkable ability to blend country with pop sensibilities, capturing audiences across genres. The song’s journey to completion is a tale of rediscovery and collaboration. Initially recorded during a spontaneous moment in the late 1960s, Rabbitt stumbled upon this forgotten fragment in 1980, sparking inspiration to complete the track with the help of Even Stevens and David Malloy.

The song’s lyrics celebrate the simple joys and the soothing nature of a rainy night, coupled with an infectious rhythm of finger snaps and hand claps, a unique touch added by percussionist Farrell Morris. This blend of vivid imagery and memorable melody struck a chord with listeners, propelling “I Love a Rainy Night” to displace Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in February 1981, marking a rare moment of country dominance in the pop charts.

“I Love a Rainy Night” achieved remarkable success on various charts between 1980 and 1981. In Australia, as per the Kent Music Report, the song reached the sixth position, while it climbed to the fourth spot on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks and eleventh on the Canadian RPM Top Singles. The track also resonated well in New Zealand, securing the eighth position on their Singles Chart. In the United States, the song dominated, reaching the number one spot on the US Hot Country Songs, the Billboard Hot 100, and the Adult Contemporary charts, showcasing its broad appeal. However, in the UK, it peaked at fifty-three on the Singles Chart.