Unveiling the Tale Behind Eddie Rabbitt’s Chart-Topping Anthem “Step By Step”
Eddie Rabbitt, the renowned country artist of the early ’80s, took the music scene by storm with his iconic album “Step By Step.” But what’s the fascinating backstory of this unforgettable title track?
Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, just a stone’s throw away from Denver, Colorado, lay the picturesque Caribou Ranch. This was no ordinary ranch; it was equipped with a unique recording facility that attracted artists and musicians seeking a tranquil retreat to unleash their creative spirits without the distractions of the outside world. The brainchild of former Chicago producer James Guercio, who also played a pivotal role in founding Country Music Television, Caribou Ranch became a haven for musical innovation. The recording studio was surrounded by cozy cabins where artists, musicians, and their entourages hunkered down to bring their artistic visions to life. Among the illustrious albums to emerge from this creative sanctuary were “Chicago X,” Elton John’s “Caribou,” Dan Fogelberg’s “Nether Lands,” and, of course, Eddie Rabbitt’s 1981 masterpiece, “Step By Step.”
Before diving into their daily noon recording sessions, Eddie Rabbitt and his producer, David Malloy, had a heartwarming ritual. They would make their way to Even Stevens’ cabin, shielded from the snowy embrace of winter, where Stevens took charge of whipping up a hearty breakfast. Around the crackling fire, Eddie and David would meticulously plan out their day’s work schedule. With a staggering thirty songs in the pipeline for the album, they had already wrapped up four or five tracks by the end of their first week at Caribou. It was during this time that the inspiration for “Step By Step,” the album’s title track, struck them like a lightning bolt.
The birth of the song can be traced back to a somewhat unexpected source—a Three Stooges comedy routine. In this memorable sketch, which was later reprised on “I Love Lucy,” a character loses his sanity and turns homicidal every time he hears his ex-wife’s name. As the name is repeatedly mentioned throughout the skit, the character’s transformation into a murderous lunatic unfolds with the words “Slowly I turn, step by step, inch by inch…” echoing through the scene. Oddly enough, David Malloy had this old routine on his mind that fateful morning. He plucked the phrase “step by step” from it and, with unwavering conviction, declared that he had just stumbled upon a title that would become a sensation.
With their bellies full and creative spirits soaring, the trio wasted no time. In a mere half-hour, they conjured a song that would etch Eddie Rabbitt’s name in music history. “Step By Step” soared to the top of the country charts, marking Rabbitt’s fourth consecutive #1 country hit and his eighth overall. On October 17, 1981, it reached its zenith, simultaneously ascending to #5 on Billboard’s Hot 100 pop chart. This remarkable feat solidified Eddie Rabbitt’s status as the only country star to achieve three consecutive pop Top Five singles during the ’80s, a remarkable accomplishment that included “Driving My Life Away” and “I Love A Rainy Night.” Furthermore, “Step By Step” made history as the first country video to grace the screens of MTV.
Eddie Rabbitt’s “Step By Step” is not merely a song; it’s a testament to the power of inspiration, camaraderie, and the unshakable bond between artists and their craft. With its infectious melody and catchy lyrics, it continues to captivate audiences, reminding us of the magic that can unfold in the most unexpected of moments.
Album: Step by Step
Released: 1981
Artist: Eddie Rabbitt
Genre: Country
Lyrics
She seems a million miles away
When she walks by, you don’t know what to say
You gonna make a move, you better make it now
Don’t be afraid, ’cause love will show you how
You take that first step, ask her out and treat her like a lady
Second step, tell her she’s the one you’re dreaming of
Third step, take her in your arms and never let her go
Don’t you know step by step, step by step, you’ll win her love?
She looks too beautiful to touch
But your heart keeps talking to you now, don’t give up
You think you see something in her eye
But you will never know until you try
But you gotta take that first step, ask her out and treat her like a lady
Second step, tell her she’s the one you’re dreaming of
Third step, take her in your arms and never let her go
Don’t you know that step by step, step by step, you’ll win her love?
Second step
Third step
Don’t you know step by step, step by step-
First step, ask her out and treat her like a lady
Second step, tell her she’s the one you’re dreaming of
Third step, take her in your arms and never let her go
Don’t you know that step by step, step by step, you’ll win her love?
Second step
Third step
Don’t you know step by step, step by step-
First step, ask her out and treat her like a lady
Second step, tell her she’s the one you’re dreaming of
Third step, take her in your arms and never let her go
Don’t you know that step by step, step by step-
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