"I Wanna Go Back" is probably one of the most recognizable songs of Eddie Money's career. All about reminiscing, it's always been one of my favorites and not only because there's a part of me that can't give up '80's music, but because of the sentiment.
In this new release with the same name, Money does go back – not to his own musical past of the '70s and '80s but even further to some of the most memorable songs and artists ever. It's not an easy task to cover a classic, but for the most part Money makes it work. His songs have always included trademark horns, so their use here doesn't seem out of place with his rough and tumble voice; in fact the way he makes the songs his own, you almost forget they are covers.
But as an artist who is still recording his own music and doing live shows thirty years after releasing his first album, why do an album of covers? In a press release about the album Money said, "The greatest Rock and Roll ever came from songs like these. They are the reason I became an artist." If you take the time to listen you can really hear how these songs did influence early Eddie Money albums.
The first single from Wanna Go Back is "You Don't Know Me" and he stays pretty faithful to Ray Charles' version. Money's voice has always been emotive, and he doesn't miss a step here; the listener feels the pain and longing, and the piano only exemplifies it. It is one of only two times the album strays from up-tempo tracks. The other is with a medley of James Brown songs, "Please Please Please/Oh Baby Don't You Weep." It would be easy to cross the line from heartbroken pleading to outright whining, but Money knows where the line is and doesn't cross it.
Article comments
1 - Mark Saleski
you know, lots of folks immediately label these sorts of things money grabs, but they gloss over the fact that these artists truly love the music of their youth.
i'll give somebody who flies under most people's radar as an example: Southside Johnny. sure, he's got the Bruce/Asbury Park thing going on...but there's also the history of soul music in there as well. i was at a show once and he quoted "Spanish Harlem" in the middle of a song. totally appropriate.
2 - Connie Phillips
Thanks for the comment, Mark, and I would have to say I agree with you.
In this CD especially you can truly hear his appreciation for the music and the fun he is having recording them, as well as the influences in Money's songs.
3 - Bredt
I seen Eddie in concert since the 70's and it's always a great show and this CD has great songs, my fave being "Buttercup" and perfect for his smooth voice.
I'm sorry I'll miss him in Denver this year.
I'm hands down a Rick Springfield fan but to be honest I saw Eddie several more times before I ever saw Rick and I have missed seeing Eddie in concert.
Bredt Butler
4 - Connie Phillips
Thanks for the comment, Bredt. "Buttercup" is probably one of my favorites on the disc as well, with "Baby Now That I've Found You" and "You Don't Know Me" ranking a close second and third.
The last time I saw him live was probably three years ago, but have to agree it was an excellent show. He does deliver when on stage.
5 - The Haze
One of the hardest working and underrated artist in the business. Would have liked to see him and Mitch Ryder together. Calling the HOF.....how about a blue collar man?
6 - Peter
I'll give Eddie Money a shot at this, but Rod Stewart needs to stop already. :)
7 - Connie Phillips
Thanks Haze and Peter. I have to agree Money has had a long productive career (putting out albums that I enjoy). I'd enjoy hearing more of this from him, but I'm a bit biased. I love both his voice and this type of music.
8 - Eddie Money FAN Paso Robles, Ca
Saw Eddie Money last night at the Paso Robles Mid State Fair. Eddie put on a great show with losts of energy and for a moment I was sent back to the 80's. The addition of his daughter was a big surprise and was exciting to see! Keep Rockin'...and take your daughter with you!