ROCK MOMENT – Eddie Money ‘Shakin”
Released in 1982, ‘Shakin” marked an important moment in Eddie Money’s career and served as one of the standout tracks from his fifth studio album, No Control. By the early ’80s, Money was working to regain momentum after a few quieter years commercially, and the No Control album represented a conscious effort to return to a more energetic, straight-ahead rock sound while still embracing the polished production style that was becoming popular on radio.
No Control was produced by legendary producer Tom Dowd, whose résumé included work with Eric Clapton, Rod Stewart, and the Allman Brothers Band. Dowd helped give the album a sharper, more radio-friendly edge without losing Eddie Money’s signature blue-collar rock attitude. The sessions focused on strong hooks, punchy guitar tones, and tighter arrangements, all of which can be heard clearly on ‘Shakin’.’ The album blended upbeat rockers with more melodic tracks, showing Money’s versatility as both a rocker and a pop songwriter.
Alongside ‘Shakin” the album included singles like ‘Think I’m in Love,’ which became one of Eddie Money’s biggest chart hits, reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. Songs such as ‘Take a Little Bit’ and the title track ‘No Control’ further showcased the album’s mix of high-energy rock and accessible melodies. While No Control didn’t reach blockbuster sales at the time of release, it performed solidly on the charts and helped stabilize Money’s career during a transitional era for rock music, when new wave and synth-driven pop were dominating the airwaves.
Within that context, ‘Shakin” stood out as one of the album’s most playful and memorable tracks. Co-written by Money and guitarist Randy Oda, the song captured the carefree spirit that had always been part of his appeal. Its driving rhythm, catchy chorus, and humorous storytelling made it a favorite on rock radio and a highlight of his live shows. The track’s success also benefited from MTV exposure, introducing Eddie Money to a younger generation of fans who were discovering artists through music videos.
Looking back, No Control is often viewed as a key bridge between Eddie Money’s late ’70s breakthrough years and his massive mid-’80s comeback. “Shakin’,” with its infectious energy and classic rock swagger, helped keep his momentum alive and remains one of the defining songs from an album that reaffirmed his place in mainstream rock during a rapidly changing musical landscape.
