Eddie Rabbitt & Wife Janine: A Story Of Love & Loss
Can the story of a country music icon and his beloved wife truly capture the essence of love, loss, and the enduring power of music? The life of Eddie Rabbitt, a man who not only conquered the country charts but also navigated the depths of personal tragedy, provides a resounding "yes."
Born Edward Thomas Rabbitt on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York, to Irish immigrant parents, Eddie Rabbitt's journey to country music stardom was a testament to his tenacity and raw talent. Raised in East Orange, New Jersey, he signed his first recording contract with 20th Century Records in 1964, a pivotal moment that set him on the path to achieving his musical dreams. His early efforts included the release of his first single, "Next to the Note" b/w "Six Nights & Seven Days," a sign of the creative force he was poised to become. He later moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in 1968, to further pursue his passion. His songwriting prowess became apparent when he penned "Working My Way Up to the Bottom," which was recorded by Grand Ole Opry artist Roy Drusky. His talent didn't go unnoticed as he was hired as a staff writer for the prestigious Hill & Range Publishing Company. He also wrote "Kentucky Rain" a hit for Elvis Presley in 1970. The impact of his musical creations extended far beyond the country genre, and his name became synonymous with a new era in music.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Edward Thomas Rabbitt |
| Born | November 27, 1941, Brooklyn, New York |
| Died | May 7, 1998 (Age 56) in Nashville, Tennessee |
| Cause of Death | Lung Cancer |
| Occupation | Country Singer, Songwriter, and Guitarist |
| Years Active | 1960s - 1998 |
| Spouse | Janine Girardi (Married 1976, until his death in 1998) |
| Notable Songs | "I Love a Rainy Night," "Driving My Life Away," "Kentucky Rain" (written for Elvis Presley), "Pure Love" (written for Ronnie Milsap) |
| Key Achievements | 20 #1 Songs, 34 Total Top 10 Hits, Defined "crossover" in country and pop music. |
| Labels | 20th Century Records, Columbia Records |
| Burial | Calvary Cemetery, Nashville, Tennessee |
| Reference | Wikipedia |
The world remembers Eddie Rabbitt for his incredible talent. He had twenty number one songs and a total of thirty-four top-ten hits. Most of which he wrote himself. Rabbitt was a true pioneer, one of the most significant and influential country artists of the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s. Tracks like "I Love a Rainy Night" and "Driving My Life Away" became anthems. "Every Which Way but Loose," a song written for the Clint Eastwood film, brought country music to a wider audience.
Yet, beyond the accolades and chart-topping success, lay a man who experienced profound personal loss. One of the most challenging periods in Eddie's life was the death of his son, Timmy, at a young age. The loss deeply affected both Eddie and his wife, Janine, and it would later influence his musical work. It was a tragedy that would forever shape his perspective on life and art. The couple found solace in their remaining children, using their love for them to keep them strong. Later, Eddie often spoke about how Janine's unwavering strength and support helped him through the tragedy, underscoring their deep bond.
Janine Girardi met Eddie Rabbitt during the early days of his career. Their meeting was a chance encounter that blossomed into a lifelong partnership. She was a constant presence in his life and career, playing a major role in his success. Janine married Eddie Rabbitt in 1976. Their life together was filled with both joy and sorrow, a testament to the complexities of life and love.
Janine Girardi was much more than just Eddie Rabbitt's wife; she played a vital role in his career, offering support and encouragement. It was a partnership built on love, mutual respect, and a shared passion for music. Demelza Rabbitt, born to Eddie and Janine in the late 1970s, is one of their children. While she has chosen to live a private life, her existence further underscores the importance of family in Eddie's life.
In 1997, Eddie Rabbitt was diagnosed with lung cancer. Despite undergoing surgery and treatment, he tragically passed away on May 7, 1998, at the age of 56, in Nashville, Tennessee. His passing was a profound loss for the music world. Janine was devastated. Rabbitt, a longtime smoker, passed away after the disease was diagnosed in March 1997. His final resting place is Calvary Cemetery in Nashville, a place where fans and loved ones can pay their respects to the man who touched so many hearts. Her commitment to preserving his musical legacy is a testament to her enduring love and respect for the man and his music.
As we reflect on the story of Eddie Rabbitt and Janine Girardi, we are reminded that behind every iconic artist, there is often a story of deep personal connection, resilience, and the enduring power of love. The music he created will continue to be a source of comfort, inspiration, and celebration for generations to come, ensuring that his legacy lives on.
