Can't Keep A Good Man Down

The song "Can't Keep a Good Man Down" from Eddie Money's 1978 album Life for the Taking captures the resilient spirit of the blue-collar rocker. In a 2014 interview with McClain Johnson, Money shared that his lyrical inspiration leaned toward uplifting themes, aiming to leave listeners feeling good. This track, which hit #63 on the Billboard Hot 100, embodies that ethos with its defiant chorus and gritty guitar riffs, as noted by fans on Reddit who praised its raw energy. The song was part of an album written largely on the road, with Money penning lyrics in hotel rooms and refining them during soundchecks, reflecting his relentless touring schedule. Fans on X celebrated the album’s 40th anniversary in 2019, with Money himself asking followers to name their favorite tracks, highlighting the enduring love for this period of his work. One fan forum described Life for the Taking as a "masterpiece," with "Can't Keep a Good Man Down" standing out for its swing and infectious optimism.

Eddie Money, born Edward Joseph Mahoney on March 21, 1949, in Brooklyn, New York, came from a family of Irish Catholic descent with a strong law enforcement background. His grandfather, father, and brother were New York City police officers, and at 18, Money followed suit, joining the NYPD as a trainee. However, his passion for music clashed with the department’s strict rules, particularly their ban on long hair, which Money refused to cut. In 1968, he left the police force, later quipping in a Goldmine Magazine interview, "I couldn’t see myself in a police uniform for 20 years of my life, with short hair." His bandmates also ousted him for being a cop, pushing him further toward music. Moving to Berkeley, California, he immersed himself in the vibrant Bay Area music scene, studying with vocal coach Judy Davis and adopting the stage name Eddie Money—a playful nod to his perpetually broke state. His big break came when rock promoter Bill Graham spotted him at a local club, leading to a Columbia Records deal and his 1977 debut album.

Money’s official website, eddiemoney.com, offers a hub for his music and legacy, while his Facebook page remains active with tributes and updates from his family. His Instagram account, managed posthumously, shares nostalgic photos and clips, and his X profile reflects fan engagement and anniversary posts, like the 2019 nod to Life for the Taking. Fans connect on platforms like the Rikki Rampage’s World of Rock Forum, where they discuss his discography and share personal stories. A Facebook group dedicated to Eddie Money also thrives, with "Zoo Freaks" and others posting about favorite tracks like "Can't Keep a Good Man Down" and reminiscing about his live shows. These communities keep Money’s working-class rocker spirit alive, echoing the song’s message of perseverance.