Joe Walsh, the legendary guitarist known for his work with the Eagles and the James Gang, has a colorful history in rock music. At 77, he blends nostalgia with modern fame, recently trending on TikTok with his classic 1973 hit “Rocky Mountain Way.” This resurgence has reignited public interest in his music, highlighting his journey of reinvention.
Return to Fame: TikTok Trend
“Rocky Mountain Way” has seen a remarkable revival due to a TikTok phenomenon. Users share videos overlaying the phrase “Unfortunately, I do love,” while revealing their bad habits. The song serves as an audacious soundtrack, connecting Walsh’s rock roots to today’s social media culture.
A Brief History of “Rocky Mountain Way”
- Originally released in 1973 as a single from Walsh’s solo debut album, “The Smoker You Drink, The Player You Get.”
- The song peaked at number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100.
- Its lyrics capture Walsh’s transition from the James Gang to pursuing a solo career.
Inspiration Behind the Hit
Walsh’s inspiration struck him unexpectedly while mowing his lawn in Boulder, Colorado. He reflected on his decision to leave the James Gang, noting the natural beauty surrounding him. This moment spurred the creation of iconic lyrics, despite resulting in an unfortunate incident where his lawnmower damaged a neighbor’s flowers. “Those lyrics wound up costing me, I don’t know, maybe 1,500 bucks, but it was well worth it,” he remarked.
From James Gang to Eagles
Following his time with the James Gang, Walsh’s career skyrocketed after joining the Eagles. He replaced founding member Bernie Leadon, bringing a fresh rock sound to the band. Their collaborations led to timeless tracks like “Hotel California” and “Life in the Fast Lane.” Walsh’s distinctive talent and innovative guitar riffs have left a lasting impact on the music industry.
Lasting Legacy and Influence
Beyond his commercial success, Walsh has influenced a generation of guitarists. His unique playing style, marked by expressive slide guitar techniques, has captivated musicians like Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page. As Walsh continues to perform, including with the Eagles in Las Vegas, he remains a significant figure in rock music.
“Even people who hate the Eagles are like, ‘but Joe Walsh is all right,’” has become a popular meme, showcasing his enduring appeal. Walsh’s journey exemplifies resilience, proving that even as trends shift, true artistry remains timeless.
