In 1997 Eddie was diagnosed with lung cancer. After radiation and surgery, he recorded two more albums, but neither placed well. In May 1998, Eddie died at age 56.
In the late Seventies and early Eighties, Eddie Rabbitt laid the foundations of Hot Country before retreating to a more traditional sound. But he paved the way for the next generation of Hot Country singers: Clint Black, Garth Brooks and Randy Travis.
He died so young.