Joe Walsh biography
Date of birth : 1947-11-20
Date of death : -
Birthplace : Wichita, Kansas, U.S.
Nationality : American
Category : Arts and Entertainment
Last modified : 2023-11-20
Credited as : Singer-songwriter, Rock guitarist, Slide guitar, James Gang, Eagles, Barnstorm, The Smoker You Drink, The Player You Get
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Guitar Virtuoso and Rock Icon: The Joe Walsh Chronicles
Joseph Fidler "Joe" Walsh is an American musician, songwriter, record producer, and actor. He has been a member of three commercially successful bands, the James Gang, Barnstorm, and the Eagles, and has experienced notable success as a solo artist and prolific session musician, especially with B.B. King and Dan Fogelberg.
Musical Beginnings in Cleveland
While attending Kent State University, Walsh honed his musical skills in various bands around Cleveland. It was in 1969 that he made a significant leap, replacing Glen Schwartz as the lead guitarist for the James Gang, an American power trio that would be the launching pad for his fame.
Chapter 2: Solo Flight with Barnstorm
Walsh's solo debut with Barnstorm in 1972 marked the beginning of a musical odyssey. His innovative rhythm playing and creative guitar riffs, showcased in the album, set the stage for a solo career that would leave an indelible mark on rock history.
The follow-up album, The Smoker You Drink, The Player You Get (1973), propelled Walsh to greater heights. Tracks like "Rocky Mountain Way" not only dominated the airwaves but also became enduring classics in the realm of rock.
Joining the Eagles
In 1976, Walsh received an invitation that would change the course of his career. Joining the Eagles as the lead guitarist, he injected a harder-edged sound, preventing the group from veering entirely into the country genre. His impact rejuvenated the Eagles' sound during a crucial period.
Solo Resurgence: But Seriously Folks and There Goes the Neighborhood
As the Eagles navigated changes after Hotel California, Walsh simultaneously re-ignited his solo career. Albums like But Seriously Folks (1978) and There Goes the Neighborhood (1981) showcased his versatility, with hits like "Life's Been Good" offering a comical glimpse into rock stardom.
A Journey Through Decades
The '90s brought a reunion with the Eagles, marked by the highly successful tour and live album, Hell Freezes Over (1994). The collaboration continued, with the Eagles releasing their first studio album in 28 years, Long Road Out of Eden (2007).
In 2004, Walsh's guitar mastery took center stage at Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival and The Strat Pack in London. These performances showcased his enduring influence on the music scene.
A Reunion with the James Gang and Personal Triumphs
In 2006, Walsh reunited with Jim Fox and Dale Peters of the James Gang for a memorable summer reunion tour, a testament to his enduring connection with his musical roots.
Walsh's journey hasn't been without challenges. His compositions, including "One Day At A Time," openly address his struggles with substance abuse, particularly alcoholism. Since 1995, he has been on a path of recovery.
Recent Performances and Collaborations
On September 3, 2022, Walsh appeared in London with the recently reunited James Gang at the Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert at Wembley Stadium. The event was simulcasted live worldwide on various platforms, including Paramount +, which aired an uncut, commercial-free version of the 339-minute concert. Walsh, wielding a PRS guitar, showcased his vocal and guitar prowess, including slide guitar, during a memorable three-song set. The final song, "Funk #49," featured Dave Grohl as the second drummer.
Following the London performance, Walsh joined the James Gang at the September 27, 2022 Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California. Their set included "Walk Away," "The Bomber: Closet Queen / Boléro / Cast Your Fate to the Wind," and "Funk #49," with Dave Grohl once again as the second drummer.
At the 2022 VetsAid benefit, Joe Walsh showcased his versatility. He performed a nine-song set with the James Gang and later returned for a four-song finale backed by Nathan East, Joe Vitale, and Tom Bukovac. Dave Grohl joined him on guitar for "Life's Been Good," and on "Rocky Mountain Way," Grohl played drums, the Breeders sang backing vocals, and Roy Orbison III, godson of Walsh and grandson of Roy Orbison, played guitar.
