When you think of 1980s rock, Eddie Money immediately comes to mind, with his raspy voice and unforgettable hits like “Two Tickets to Paradise” and “Take Me Home Tonight.” But beyond the music, fans are curious about the man behind the stage lights—specifically, his finances.
So, what was Eddie Money net worth at the peak of his career, and how did he earn it? From platinum albums and nationwide tours to reality TV appearances and even commercial deals, Money built a multi-million-dollar empire. This article dives deep into his life, career, and wealth, revealing how a Brooklyn-born singer turned his talent into lasting fame and fortune.
Eddie Money Bio
| Fact | Detail |
| Full Name | Edward Joseph Mahoney |
| Date of Birth | 1949 |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York |
| Date of Death | September 13, 2019 |
| Age at Death | 70 |
| Cause of Death | Stage-4 esophageal cancer |
| Net Worth | $20 million |
| Spouse | Laurie Harris (married 1989) |
| Children | Five |
| Notable Partner | Margo Lee Walker |
| Career Start | 1970s |
| Record Label | Columbia Records |
| Hit Songs | “Baby Hold On”, “Two Tickets to Paradise”, “Take Me Home Tonight”, “Can’t Hold Back” |
| Platinum Albums | Yes |
| Grammy Nominations | Yes |
| Media Appearances | GEICO commercial, “Real Money” (AXS TV), The Drew Carey Show, The Kominsky Method |
| MTV Videos | Yes |
| Touring Locations | San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, Manhattan |
| Key Influencers | Bill Graham |
| Career Focus | American singer and songwriter |
| Lifestyle Interests | Cars, charity work, music tours |
What was Eddie Money’s Net Worth?
Eddie Money, born Edward Joseph Mahoney, left a lasting mark on American rock music with his unforgettable voice and stage presence. By the time he passed away on September 13, 2019, at age 70, his estimated net worth stood at around $20 million. Most of his wealth came from album sales, live tours, reality TV appearances, and lucrative endorsements. Hits like “Baby Hold On”, “Two Tickets to Paradise”, and “Take Me Home Tonight” not only topped the Billboard Hot 100 but also brought him millions in royalties over decades.
Money signed a recording contract with Columbia Records in the 1970s, which set the foundation for his financial success. His albums went platinum, and he earned additional income from MTV videos, television appearances, and even commercial work, such as a GEICO commercial. Over the years, he continued to perform in the San Francisco Bay Area, touring across the United States and keeping his music in the public eye. Compared to other 1980s rock stars, Eddie Money’s wealth may not have reached the astronomical heights of some peers, but he remained comfortably affluent and widely respected in the industry.
| Source of Income | Description |
| Album Sales & Royalties | Millions earned from platinum albums and hit singles |
| Live Tours & Performances | Nationwide tours in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles |
| Reality TV & Media Appearances | Shows like “Real Money” (AXS TV), The Drew Carey Show, and The Kominsky Method |
| Commercials & Endorsements | Notably, GEICO commercial and other promotional work |
| Investments & Side Ventures | Property, merchandise, and other smaller ventures |
Early Life
Edward Joseph Mahoney was born in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up surrounded by music and city life. His early years shaped his love for performing, even as he balanced school and family responsibilities. Eddie’s childhood was a mix of typical New York experiences and exposure to a rich musical culture that inspired him to pick up instruments and start performing at a young age.
Before his rise to fame, Eddie studied at the police academy and briefly worked as a police officer. However, his true calling was music. A turning point in his early life came when he moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, a hub for live music and entertainment. There, he met influential figures like Bill Graham, who would later help launch his career. Eddie’s dedication during these formative years laid the foundation for his career as an American singer and songwriter, eventually leading to a recording contract with Columbia Records.
Career
Eddie Money’s career took off in the 1970s, quickly earning him fame in the United States. His debut album produced the hit “Baby Hold On”, which became a defining anthem of the era. Following that, “Two Tickets to Paradise” solidified his place on the Billboard Hot 100, and “Take Me Home Tonight” became one of his most recognized songs, earning him a Grammy nomination. His mix of rock energy and pop appeal allowed him to attract fans across generations.
The 1980s brought more success, including platinum albums and high-profile tours across Manhattan, Los Angeles, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Money also embraced MTV videos, which helped his music reach wider audiences. His album “Can’t Hold Back” became another commercial milestone, showcasing his staying power in the industry. Beyond music, Eddie appeared in reality television series, such as “Real Money” (AXS TV), and made cameos on shows like “The Drew Carey Show” and “The Kominsky Method”, boosting his income and keeping him in the public eye.
Despite the ups and downs of fame, including challenges with health and changing musical trends, Eddie Money remained active for decades. His stage presence and enduring hits kept him touring, earning money, and connecting with fans until the final years of his life.
Personal Life
Eddie Money married Laurie Harris in 1989, and together they raised five children. Family was a central part of his life, and his children often inspired him during his career. He also had relationships outside of his marriage, including with Margo Lee Walker, but he maintained a strong connection with his family.
Beyond family, Eddie loved cars, collecting vintage vehicles, and staying active in charitable causes. Unfortunately, his later years were marked by health struggles. He battled stage-4 esophageal cancer, which ultimately led to his passing in Berkeley, California. Despite these challenges, Eddie remained engaged with fans through performances, TV appearances, and interviews, leaving behind a legacy that blends personal warmth with professional achievement.
Conclusion
Eddie Money’s net worth of $20 million reflects a lifetime of hard work, talent, and resilience. From his early days in Brooklyn, New York, to signing a recording contract with Columbia Records, and achieving platinum album success, he carved out a lasting place in rock history. His hits like “Baby Hold On”, “Two Tickets to Paradise”, and “Take Me Home Tonight” continue to resonate with fans old and new.
More than just his wealth, Eddie Money’s legacy as an American singer, songwriter, and performer lives on. He proved that talent, hard work, and dedication could create both a successful career and a lasting impression on the world of music. Even in the face of health struggles, his contributions to music, television, and pop culture remain unforgettable. Eddie Money will always be remembered as a vibrant rock legend whose songs continue to bring joy to listeners everywhere.
FAQs
What was Eddie Money’s net worth at the time of his death?
Eddie Money’s net worth was estimated at $20 million when he passed away on September 13, 2019, primarily from music royalties, tours, TV appearances, and commercial endorsements.
How did Eddie Money make his money?
Eddie Money earned his wealth through recording contracts with Columbia Records, platinum albums, hit songs like “Two Tickets to Paradise”, nationwide tours, reality TV shows, and media appearances such as commercials.
When was Eddie Money born?
Edward Joseph Mahoney was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1949. His early environment and exposure to music heavily influenced his later career as an American singer and songwriter.
What were Eddie Money’s most famous songs?
Some of Eddie Money’s most famous songs include “Baby Hold On”, “Two Tickets to Paradise”, and “Take Me Home Tonight”, which all charted on the Billboard Hot 100 and remain popular today.
Was Eddie Money married and did he have children?
Eddie Money married Laurie Harris in 1989 and had five children. He also had a notable relationship with Margo Lee Walker, but his family remained central to his personal life.
How old was Eddie Money when he died?
Eddie Money died at age 70 on September 13, 2019, after battling stage-4 esophageal cancer, leaving behind a successful music career and a lasting influence on rock music.
Did Eddie Money appear on TV shows?
Yes, Eddie Money appeared on multiple TV shows, including his reality series “Real Money” (AXS TV), The Drew Carey Show, and The Kominsky Method, as well as in commercials like GEICO.
Where did Eddie Money grow up?
Eddie Money grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and later moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, where he began his professional music career, eventually gaining fame as an American singer.
What were Eddie Money’s career highlights?
Eddie Money’s career highlights include signing with Columbia Records, releasing platinum albums, performing nationwide tours, earning a Grammy nomination, and producing hit songs that topped the Billboard Hot 100.
How did Eddie Money die?
Eddie Money passed away from stage-4 esophageal cancer on September 13, 2019, at age 70, after decades of performing and contributing to American rock music and pop culture.
Alan Abel is a naming specialist and author at BoldlyNames, with over five years of experience in name research and selection. He helps readers choose meaningful, culturally aware, and well-suited names for people, brands, and projects. Alan’s work combines practical insight, linguistic understanding, and real-world naming trends to deliver clear, reliable guidance readers can trust.