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Eddie Money (1949–2019), “Two Tickets to Paradise” singer

by Kirk Fox

Popular rocker known for hits “Take Me Home Tonight” and “Shakin’.”

Eddie Money was a popular rocker who had a string of hits in the 1970s and 1980s, including the anthems, “Two Tickets to Paradise,” “Shakin,'” and “Take Me Home Tonight.” Money was born Eddie Mahoney in Brooklyn, New York. He worked the club circuit in California and was noticed by Columbia Records, who signed him to a contract. His success was boosted when MTV became a sensation with humorous videos for “Think I’m in Love” and “Shakin’.” Money also acted, appearing on the sitcom “The King of Queens” and was currently starring in the reality show “Real Money.” He continued to record albums and tour, as recently as this year. 

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Died: September 13, 2019 (Who else died on September 13?) 

Details of death: Died at the age of 70 from esophageal cancer.


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Statement from Eddie Money’s family: “The Money Family regrets to announce that Eddie passed away peacefully early this morning. It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to our loving husband and father. We cannot imagine our world without him. We are grateful that he will live on forever through his music.”

On his song “Two Tickets to Paradise”: “Well, I was going with a girl at the time. She was in college and I was in college and her mother wanted her to meet somebody that was actually making a living. She had been dating the mayor’s son and I didn’t have any money to take her to Bermuda or Hawaii or anything else like that. So I wanted to take her on a Greyhound bus ride to the California Redwoods. It would only cost maybe $62 for the both of us. But she dumped me and it never happened, so who knows?” —2018 interview with Rolling Stone

What they said about him: “RIP Eddie Money who I had the honor of sharing the stage with in 2013 …. a true legend” —Singer Debbie Gibson

“Sad news this morning Eddie Money has passed away Rest in peace Buddy” – Musician Charlie Daniels

“Eddie Money was a great rock ‘n’ roll singer. Catskills funny and a cool cat persona. Irreverent and reverential about rock ‘n’ roll. One ticket to paradise. He will be missed. Much love to his family and friends. RIP” —Musician and DJ Michael Des Barres

“Rest In Peace My Dear Friend Eddie Money. I was so honored to be one of your background singers. Sending all my heartfelt condolences to Laurie and the family.Thinking of you and sending my love.” —Brady Bunch star Maureen McCormick

Full obituary: Chicago Tribune  

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