Feature Photo: Derek Russell, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Joe Walsh’s solo career traces its roots back to his time as a member of the James Gang, a hard rock trio that gained prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Known for his innovative guitar work and distinctive vocals, Walsh left the band in 1971 to pursue a new creative direction. His first post-James Gang endeavor was the formation of Barnstorm, a band that included drummer Joe Vitale and bassist Kenny Passarelli. While their self-titled debut album Barnstorm was a group effort, Walsh’s name remained the most recognizable, and it wasn’t long before his solo career began to take shape.
Walsh’s second album, The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get, marked his official transition into solo stardom, giving birth to classics like “Rocky Mountain Way.” Over the years, Walsh would release a string of successful solo albums that blended rock, blues, and folk influences, while simultaneously serving as the lead guitarist for the Eagles, joining the iconic band in 1975. His time with the Eagles coincided with their greatest commercial success, including the landmark album Hotel California.
To date, Joe Walsh has released twelve solo studio albums, each reflecting different phases of his musical evolution, from the experimental tones of the 1970s to the more polished productions of the 1980s and beyond. His work as a solo artist and a member of the Eagles has cemented Walsh’s place as one of rock’s most enduring figures, with his signature mix of humor, introspection, and virtuosity shining through on every album. This article takes a look at Walsh’s extensive discography, tracing the highs and lows of his solo career and the unique contributions he’s made to rock music over five decades.
This list does not include the albums he released as part of the James Gang or the Eagles. Those albums have been listed in separate articles in which there are links below to view them.
JOE WALSH STUDIO ALBUMS
Barnstorm
Released 1972
After leaving the James Gang, Joe Walsh formed Barnstorm, releasing their self-titled debut album Barnstorm in October 1972 on ABC and Dunhill Records. The album was a departure from the hard rock sound Walsh had established with the James Gang, instead embracing a more acoustic, folk-influenced sound. Recorded at the famous Caribou Ranch in Colorado, the album showcased Walsh’s ability to blend various genres, including folk, rock, and experimental sounds. He drew inspiration from artists like James Taylor and Crosby, Stills, and Nash. The album was notable for Walsh’s use of the ARP Odyssey synthesizer on tracks like “Mother Says” and “Here We Go,” giving the record a distinct texture. Walsh also experimented with acoustic guitars, slide guitars, and running his guitar through a Leslie 122 speaker to create swirling, organ-like effects. Despite its lack of immediate commercial success, Barnstorm developed a cult following and is now seen as an underrated gem in Walsh’s catalog.
“Turn to Stone,” the album’s standout track, became popular when Walsh later re-recorded it for his solo album So What. The album was produced by Bill Szymczyk, who had worked with Walsh during his James Gang days. Along with Walsh, Barnstorm members Kenny Passarelli (bass) and Joe Vitale (drums) were instrumental in creating the album’s sound, contributing not only as musicians but also as songwriters. Session musicians like Paul Harris on piano and Al Perkins on steel guitar further enriched the album’s depth. In 2006, Barnstorm was reissued in the U.S. on CD, and in 2011, it was re-released in Japan with a remastered SHM-CD format, keeping the album’s legacy alive for new generations of listeners.
Track Listing:
“Here We Go” – 4:58
“Midnight Visitor” – 3:13
“One and One” – 1:15
“Giant Bohemoth” (Joe Vitale, Joe Walsh) – 4:19
“Mother Says” (Kenny Passarelli, Joe Vitale, Joe Walsh) – 6:14
“Birdcall Morning” – 3:42
“Home” – 2:53
“I’ll Tell the World” (Alan Gordon, Allan Jacobs) – 3:54
“Turn to Stone” (Terry Trebandt, Joe Walsh) – 5:16
“Comin’ Down” – 1:54
The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get
Released 1973
The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get is Joe Walsh’s second studio album, released in 1973 by ABC-Dunhill Records. This album marked a pivotal moment in Walsh’s career, serving as his commercial breakthrough with the standout hit “Rocky Mountain Way.” The song’s infectious guitar riff and laid-back groove carried it into the Top 40, propelling the album to number six on the Billboard 200 and number two in Canada. The album’s title, a cheeky twist on the phrase “The higher you get, the better you play,” reflects Walsh’s signature humor and easygoing nature. Despite the playful title, the music on this record is an eclectic blend of rock, blues, jazz, and folk, showing Walsh’s willingness to explore new musical directions.
The album wasn’t just a solo effort but a collaboration with Barnstorm, the band Walsh had formed with drummer Joe Vitale, bassist Kenny Passarelli, and keyboardist Rocke Grace. Recorded at Caribou Ranch in Colorado during the summer of 1973, the album was produced by Walsh and veteran producer Bill Szymczyk, who expertly captured the wide range of styles on display. Vitale and Passarelli contributed not only musically but also as songwriters and vocalists, making The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get a more collective effort than it is often credited for. The band’s chemistry is evident across the album, from the laid-back vibes of “Rocky Mountain Way” to the piano-driven “Bookends” and the jazz-inflected “Midnight Moodies.”
Critically, the album was praised for its adventurousness and diversity. AllMusic praised Walsh’s ability to move effortlessly between musical genres, making the album appeal to a broad audience. In addition to the rock classic “Rocky Mountain Way,” songs like “Meadows” and “Dreams” reflect Walsh’s reflective side, while tracks like “Days Gone By” allow Joe Vitale to shine with his unique vocal contributions. The album also stands as a farewell to Barnstorm, as Walsh would continue his career as a solo artist after its release. But even as a solo work, The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get holds a special place in Joe Walsh’s catalog as a perfect fusion of band collaboration and individual artistry.
“Happy Ways” (Kenny Passarelli, Bernard Zoloth) – 2:40
Side B:
“Meadows” – 4:36
“Dreams” – 5:50
“Days Gone By” (Joe Vitale) – 5:54
“Daydream (Prayer)” – 1:56
So What
Released 1974
So What is the third studio album by American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Joe Walsh. Released in late 1974 by ABC-Dunhill Records, the album marked a transitional moment in Walsh’s career, blending his signature hard rock sound with more introspective, heartfelt ballads. It includes standout tracks like “Welcome to the Club” and the re-recorded “Turn to Stone,” originally from his time with Barnstorm, as well as deeply personal material such as “Help Me Through the Night” and “Song for Emma.” This record is notable for featuring three members of the Eagles—Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and Randy Meisner—who contributed backing vocals on key tracks, foreshadowing Walsh’s eventual joining of the band.
So What was produced by Walsh’s longtime collaborator Bill Szymczyk, with recording sessions taking place earlier in 1974. During this time, Walsh was determined to push beyond the expectations set by his previous releases, stating his desire to evolve artistically and avoid merely creating a sequel to The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get. His goal was to create something as groundbreaking as the difference between Revolver and Sgt. Pepper’s, a lofty aspiration he pursued despite pressure from his label. This effort is evident in the album’s rich textures, which range from hard-hitting rock riffs to more melodic, emotional reflections.
The song “Song for Emma” holds special significance, written as a tribute to Walsh’s young daughter who tragically died in a car accident earlier that year. This track, along with “Help Me Through the Night,” highlights Walsh’s ability to navigate personal tragedy through his music, blending vulnerability with the powerful instrumentation that defined his sound. Henley co-wrote “Falling Down” and contributed backing vocals on several tracks, further hinting at the collaborative relationship that would soon lead to Walsh’s full-time membership in the Eagles. Critics were divided upon the album’s release, but it has since become an essential part of Walsh’s catalog, particularly for fans of his more introspective material.
Track listing:
“Welcome to the Club” – 5:14
“Falling Down” (Joe Walsh, Don Henley) – 4:56
“Pavanne of the Sleeping Beauty” (Maurice Ravel) – 1:56
“Time Out” (Walsh, Terry Trebandt) – 4:28
“All Night Laundry Mat Blues” – 0:58
“Turn to Stone” (Walsh, Trebandt) – 3:47
“Help Me Through the Night” – 3:35
“County Fair” – 6:43
“Song for Emma” – 4:20
But Seriously, Folks…
Released 1978
But Seriously, Folks… is the fourth studio album by Joe Walsh, released in mid-1978 on the Asylum label. The album features Walsh’s trademark mix of rock, satire, and introspection, most notably embodied in the hit single “Life’s Been Good.” This satirical track, running over eight minutes on the album, became Walsh’s biggest solo hit when an edited version reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song humorously chronicles the excesses and contradictions of the rock star lifestyle, perfectly encapsulating the light-hearted and reflective themes that permeate the album.
But Seriously, Folks… is unique in Walsh’s catalog for including contributions from all four members of the Eagles, a band Walsh had joined two years earlier. In addition to the Eagles, the album features musicians such as Jay Ferguson of Spirit and Jo Jo Gunne fame, co-writing one of the tracks, and Barnstorm drummer Joe Vitale, who remained a constant collaborator throughout Walsh’s career. Willie Weeks, a respected session bassist, also contributed to the album, further cementing the all-star nature of the lineup. These collaborations add depth to the record, blending rock with subtle elements of jazz and funk while maintaining Walsh’s distinctive sound.
Critically, the album received mixed reviews at the time. Robert Christgau of The Village Voice noted Walsh’s knack for “tuneful guitar schlock,” but felt that most of the album didn’t match the energy and irreverence of “Life’s Been Good.” However, in a more favorable retrospective review, AllMusic’s Al Campbell called But Seriously, Folks… Walsh’s “most insightful and melodic” work, even comparing its thematic cohesion to Pet Sounds, but in a ’70s rock context. The album’s balance of humor and introspection, highlighted by tracks like “Over and Over” and “Indian Summer,” demonstrate Walsh’s range as a songwriter.
The track “Over and Over” was also released as a single and praised for its rhythmic complexity, blending slide guitar with organ backing, a “slip and slide beat,” and strong vocal harmonies. Despite its success, “Life’s Been Good” remains the album’s cornerstone, a rock anthem that continues to resonate as one of Walsh’s signature songs.
Track listing:
“Over and Over” – 4:53
“Second Hand Store” (Mike Murphy) – 3:35
“Indian Summer” – 3:03
“At the Station” (Joe Vitale) – 5:08
“Tomorrow” – 3:39
“Inner Tube” – 1:25
“Theme from Boat Weirdos” (Vitale, Jay Ferguson, Willie Weeks, Bill Szymczyk) – 4:43
There Goes the Neighborhood is the fifth solo studio album by Joe Walsh, released in May 1981 by Asylum Records. The album came three years after the success of But Seriously, Folks… and saw Walsh further solidify his status as both a solo artist and a key member of Eagles. This record features contributions from fellow Eagles members Don Felder and Timothy B. Schmit, along with some of the most respected session musicians of the era, including drummer Russ Kunkel, multi-instrumentalist David Lindley, keyboardist Bob Mayo, and percussionist Victor Feldman.
Musically, There Goes the Neighborhood combines the familiar elements of Walsh’s hard rock sound with introspective and satirical lyrics, giving the album a blend of serious and humorous tones. It reflects Walsh’s distinctive style—marked by his sharp guitar work, laid-back vocals, and his occasional use of talk box guitar effects, particularly evident on tracks like “Rivers (Of the Hidden Funk).”
The album hit No. 20 on the Billboard 200, largely buoyed by the success of its single, “A Life of Illusion.” Originally recorded with Barnstorm in 1973, the song was finished during the sessions for this album, making it one of Walsh’s most enduring hits. “A Life of Illusion” topped the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and reached No. 34 on the Billboard Hot 100, securing its place as one of the standout songs in Walsh’s catalog. The song’s enduring popularity was reinforced when it was used in the 2005 comedy The 40-Year-Old Virgin.
Other highlights include “Rivers (Of the Hidden Funk),” a song originally intended for the Eagles’ The Long Run but left off the final cut. The track features Don Felder on talk box guitar, blending perfectly with Walsh’s own guitar style. “You Never Know,” the album’s closer, is a thinly veiled critique of the Eagles’ internal tensions and their management, making pointed lyrical jabs at the politics surrounding the band. Timothy B. Schmit provides backing vocals on the opening track “Things,” adding a layer of familiarity for Eagles fans.
Critically, There Goes the Neighborhood was well received for its guitar work and sharp wit, although it didn’t match the commercial success of Walsh’s earlier solo efforts. The album remains a fan favorite, noted for its mix of humor, introspection, and Walsh’s signature rock sound.
Track listing:
“Things” – 5:40
“Made Your Mind Up” – 4:24
“Down on the Farm” – 3:10
“Rivers (Of the Hidden Funk)” (Joe Walsh, Don Felder) – 5:06
“A Life of Illusion” (Kenny Passarelli, Joe Walsh) – 3:30
“Bones” – 4:32
“Rockets” – 3:55
“You Never Know” – 5:20
You Bought It – You Name It
Released 1983
You Bought It – You Name It is Joe Walsh’s sixth studio album, released in mid-1983 by Warner Bros. Records. Following the success of There Goes the Neighborhood, Walsh continued his eclectic approach with this record, blending his signature rock sound with humorous and introspective material. However, this album didn’t receive as much commercial success, peaking at #48 on the Billboard 200. Despite this, the single “Space Age Whiz Kids,” a reflection of the 1980s video arcade culture, garnered some moderate success, peaking at #52 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #21 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
Recorded in a mix of Santa Catalina Island and other studios, the album saw Walsh collaborating with long-time friends and fellow Eagles members Don Henley and Timothy B. Schmit, along with musicians like Don Felder and Joe Vitale. Vitale, who had been with Walsh since their days in Barnstorm, provided not only drums and piano but also co-writing credits on tracks like “Space Age Whiz Kids” and “I.L.B.T.s.” Waddy Wachtel’s distinctive rhythm guitar adds a solid backbone to the record, while George “Chocolate” Perry’s bass lines ground many of the songs in a classic rock groove.
Musically, the album features hard rock tracks like “I Can Play That Rock & Roll” and a cover of the classic song “Love Letters.” More introspective songs such as “Class of ’65” show Walsh’s ability to balance humor with deeper emotions. “Told You So” stands out as an outtake from The Long Run sessions with the Eagles, featuring Don Felder on lead guitar. Although You Bought It – You Name It didn’t achieve the same level of acclaim as Walsh’s previous albums, it remains a noteworthy entry in his catalog for its diversity in both style and content.
Track Listings:
“I Can Play That Rock & Roll” – 3:03
“Told You So” (Don Felder, Joe Walsh) – 3:54
“Here We Are Now” – 3:54
“The Worry Song” (George “Chocolate” Perry, Joe Walsh) – 4:37
“I.L.B.T.s” (Joe Vitale, Joe Walsh) – 2:53
“Space Age Whiz Kids” (Vitale, Walsh) – 3:40
“Love Letters” (Edward Heyman, Victor Young) – 3:11
“Class of ’65” – 4:27
“Shadows” – 5:09
“Theme from Island Weirdos” (Vitale, Walsh) – 3:35
The Confessor
Released May 21, 1985
The Confessor marks Joe Walsh’s seventh solo studio album, released on Warner Bros. Records and Full Moon Records. Co-produced by Grammy-winning producer Keith Olsen alongside Walsh, the album presents an eclectic mix of styles, ranging from blues to pop, and even touches of Caribbean influences. The album’s title track, “The Confessor,” stands out with its progressive rock leanings, illustrating Walsh’s signature ability to experiment within the rock genre. The album reached number 65 on the Billboard 200.
The album artwork showcases Walsh’s interest in blending art and music. The cover features Caspar David Friedrich’s painting Zwei Männer in Betrachtung des Mondes (Two Men Contemplating the Moon), while the back cover displays another of Friedrich’s masterpieces, Der Wanderer über dem Nebelmeer (Wanderer above the Sea of Fog), creating a mystical atmosphere that pairs well with the introspective tone of the music.
Notable tracks include a cover of Michael Stanley’s “Rosewood Bitters,” where Walsh, who played slide guitar on Stanley’s original recording, opts for an electric guitar this time around. The album also features “Slow Dancing,” a song written by Loz Netto, formerly of Sniff ‘n’ the Tears. Walsh’s long-time collaborator Timothy B. Schmit (from the Eagles) contributes backing vocals, while session musicians like Waddy Wachtel and Randy Newman bring a fresh sound to the production. Walsh’s relationship with Stevie Nicks during this period also influenced the recording process, as she introduced him to some of the talented session musicians who contributed to the album.
Track Listings:
“Problems” (Joe Walsh, Bill Arbuckle) – 3:55
“I Broke My Leg” – 3:12
“Bubbles” – 3:33
“Slow Dancing” (Loz Netto) – 4:22
“15 Years” – 3:52
“The Confessor” – 7:06
“Rosewood Bitters” (Michael Stanley) – 3:29
“Good Man Down” (Joe Walsh, Waddy Wachtel) – 4:14
“Dear John” – 2:40
Got Any Gum?
Released October 1987
Got Any Gum? is the eighth solo studio album by Joe Walsh, released in late 1987 under Warner Bros. Records in the U.S. and Full Moon in the U.K. This album marked a shift in Walsh’s career, as it was his last release with these labels and indicated a downturn in his chart success. Despite including notable contributions from musicians such as JD Souther, Survivor’s Jimi Jamison, and even Ringo Starr, Got Any Gum? failed to achieve significant commercial success, peaking at number 113 on the Billboard 200.
The album features a blend of original material, with eight songs penned by Walsh alone or with collaborators, and two covers. Notably, the track “In My Car,” co-written with Ringo Starr, was originally recorded by Starr for his album Old Wave in 1983. The lead single, “The Radio Song,” achieved modest success, reaching number 8 on the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, and featured a music video with DJ legend Wolfman Jack.
The production of Got Any Gum? saw Walsh working with Terry Manning, whose contemporary production style was intended to update Walsh’s sound. The recording took place at Ardent Studios and Alpha Sound in Memphis, Tennessee, in early 1987. During the sessions, Walsh was introduced to session bassist Rick Rosas, with whom he would later collaborate extensively. The album’s title came from a humorous encounter Walsh recounted during an interview with Howard Stern, where he was asked for gum by a passerby instead of spare change.
The album’s cover art is iconic in its simplicity, featuring a photograph of the Memphian Theater, a historic venue in Memphis once frequented by Elvis Presley. The back cover shows Walsh leaning against a vintage 1962 Ford Thunderbird, blowing a giant bubble of gum, while the inner sleeve continues the playful theme with Walsh sporting a popped bubble on his face. The album is dedicated to Walsh’s daughter, Lucy, Ringo Starr’s niece.
Track Listings:
“The Radio Song” – 3:31
“Fun” (Joe Walsh, Joe Vitale) – 3:04
“In My Car” (Walsh, Richard Starkey, Mo Foster, Kim Goody) – 3:37
“Malibu” (Walsh, Vitale) – 5:11
“Half of the Time” – 5:11
“Got Any Gum?” (Instrumental) (Terry Manning, Walsh) – 1:11
“Up to Me” – 5:21
“No Peace in the Jungle” (Tommy Dean) – 5:57
“Memory Lane” – 4:27
“Time” – 4:09
Ordinary Average Guy
Released 1991
Ordinary Average Guy is the ninth solo studio album by Joe Walsh, released in mid-1991, marking his return with a fresh collection of new material after a four-year hiatus. This album followed his previous work, Got Any Gum? (1987), and was Walsh’s first solo effort under the Epic label after a long relationship with Warner Bros. Records. The title track, “Ordinary Average Guy,” became one of Walsh’s signature songs, blending his typical wit with a catchy rock sound that resonated with fans.
The album saw Walsh collaborating with several familiar faces, including Ringo Starr, his longtime collaborator Joe Vitale (formerly of Barnstorm), and Survivor’s lead vocalist Jimi Jamison. This eclectic mix of talents contributed to a well-rounded and enjoyable listening experience. The title track is a witty reflection of middle-class life, and tracks like “School Days,” where Vitale takes lead vocals, show off Walsh’s knack for blending humor with introspective themes. The album spans various musical genres, from rock to pop and a bit of bluesy flair, with standout tracks like “All of a Sudden” and “Look at Us Now” showcasing Walsh’s continued ability to craft catchy, thoughtful tunes.
The musicianship on Ordinary Average Guy is rich and diverse, with Joe Walsh leading on vocals, guitars, and keyboards. Joe Vitale’s contributions are central to the album, as he handles keyboards, drums, percussion, and lead vocals on the closing track, “School Days.” Waddy Wachtel adds his signature guitar work on “Alphabetical Order,” while Rick Rosas and George “Chocolate” Perry provide the bass throughout the album. Chad Cromwell’s drums and percussion bring a steady rhythm, and the saxophones of Otis Lawrence add a bright touch to certain tracks. A talented group of backing vocalists—Kelly Hurt, Lavestia Miller, Al Paris, and Jeffrey Rogers—complete the album’s sound, giving it a layered, harmonious feel.
Track Listings:
“Two Sides to Every Story” (Rick Rosas, Joe Walsh) – 3:24
“Ordinary Average Guy” – 4:12
“The Gamma Goochee” (John Mangiagli) – 2:49
“All of a Sudden” (Jimi Jamison, Joe Walsh) – 4:56
“Alphabetical Order” (Joe Vitale, Joe Walsh) – 4:58
“Look at Us Now” (Jimi Jamison, Joe Walsh) – 4:55
“I’m Actin’ Different” – 4:31
“Up All Night” (Joe Vitale, Joe Walsh) – 3:54
“You Might Need Somebody” (Nan O’Byrne, Tom Snow) – 4:30
“Where I Grew up (Prelude to School Days)” – 2:37
“School Days” (Joe Vitale) – 5:18
Songs for a Dying Planet
Released 1992
Songs for a Dying Planet marked Joe Walsh’s tenth studio album and his last solo effort for 20 years before the release of Analog Man in 2012. Released in mid-1992 on Epic, this album found Walsh attempting to regain his musical footing after the lukewarm reception of Ordinary Average Guy a year earlier. Walsh brought back his longtime producer, Bill Szymczyk, in a bid to capture some of the magic that defined his earlier work. While the album received negative reviews from many critics and failed to chart, it contains moments of Walsh’s trademark humor and introspection. The environmental message of the title track “Song for a Dying Planet” shows his concern for global issues.
The album is notable for featuring a Morse code message embedded in the track “Certain Situations,” which spells out “Register and vote for me.” While most of the album did not receive commercial success, the song “Vote for Me” did manage to gain some traction, reaching number 10 on the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. The rest of the album includes a mix of rock, ballads, and quirky experimental tracks like “Theme from Baroque Weirdos,” showing Walsh’s ability to blend different styles.
Musically, Songs for a Dying Planet contains the same laid-back rock and blues-inspired feel that Walsh is known for, but with a slightly more somber tone. The addition of Joe Vitale on several tracks, including “Coyote Love” and “Vote for Me,” keeps the album grounded in Walsh’s familiar sound, while songs like “Shut Up” and “Fairbanks Alaska” add humor and wit to an otherwise introspective record. The album closes with the deeply reflective “Song for a Dying Planet,” a short, poignant piece that leaves a lasting impression.
Track Listing:
“Shut Up” – 3:19
“Fairbanks Alaska” – 3:27
“Coyote Love” (Joe Vitale, Joe Walsh) – 4:43
“I Know” – 1:45
“Certain Situations” – 4:34
“Vote for Me” (Vitale, Walsh) – 4:21
“Theme from Baroque Weirdos” (Bill Szymczyk, Vitale) – 1:33
“The Friend Song” – 3:33
“It’s All Right” – 3:25
“Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” (Gerry Goffin, Carole King) – 3:59
“Decades” – 12:02
“Song for a Dying Planet” – 2:00
Analog Man
Released 2012
Analog Man marked the long-awaited return of Joe Walsh to solo recording, coming 20 years after his previous album, Songs for a Dying Planet. Released in mid-2012, the album reflects Walsh’s journey over the past two decades, including his time touring with the Eagles and his personal battle with addiction. This time, Walsh returned to the studio with an impressive roster of collaborators, including Jeff Lynne of Electric Light Orchestra, punk icon Tim Armstrong, and rock legends like Ringo Starr, David Crosby, and Graham Nash.
Walsh co-produced the album with Lynne, who added a modern touch to Walsh’s classic rock sound, resulting in a polished yet nostalgic album. Walsh himself noted that Lynne “really put his stamp” on the music, taking it in a direction Walsh might not have considered on his own. The album also showcases Walsh’s signature wit and reflective songwriting, especially in tracks like “Analog Man,” where he pokes fun at the digital age while celebrating the simplicity of analog living. The title track became the centerpiece of the album, capturing both humor and social commentary about modern life.
Analog Man saw solid chart success, peaking at No. 12 on the Billboard 200 and No. 4 on the Top Rock Albums chart in the United States. In the UK, the album reached No. 53, marking his first chart appearance there in 34 years. The tracks span a variety of styles, from the introspective “Family” to the upbeat “Hi-Roller Baby.” Ringo Starr’s contributions to the album, along with former Barnstorm and James Gang members, add layers of richness to Walsh’s already dynamic sound.
You Can’t Argue with a Sick Mind is Joe Walsh’s first live solo album, released in early 1976, just before Walsh officially became a member of the Eagles. This live album showcases the energy and spontaneity that Walsh brought to the stage, with tracks pulled from his legendary performance at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium on November 26, 1975. The concert was filmed for Don Kirshner’s Rock Concert and featured not only Walsh but also a number of special guests, including future bandmates from the Eagles. It serves as a bridge between Walsh’s time as a solo artist and his eventual role in one of the biggest rock bands in history.
The album includes some of Walsh’s best-known songs, such as “Rocky Mountain Way” and “Walk Away,” along with the heartfelt “Help Me Through the Night,” which features Glenn Frey, Don Felder, and Don Henley on vocals. This album captures Walsh at a critical moment in his career, before he joined the Eagles, providing a raw and captivating look at his prowess as both a guitarist and songwriter. One standout on the album is “Time Out,” a new release at the time, which adds a fresh element to the live set. Despite being relatively short at just over thirty-five minutes, the album is a solid representation of Walsh’s live energy and his ability to engage an audience.
The album’s lineup features an impressive roster of musicians, adding depth and texture to Walsh’s live performance. Joe Walsh himself takes on the guitars and lead vocals, showcasing his signature style. The band includes Jay Ferguson and David Mason on keyboards, while Willie Weeks handles bass guitar, and Andy Newmark is on drums. The album also features contributions from future Eagles bandmates: Don Felder on guitar and vocals, Glenn Frey on vocals, and Don Henley on vocals. Joe Vitale, a frequent collaborator, plays drums and flute on “Turn to Stone,” and Rocky Dzidzornu adds percussion, creating a rich and dynamic sound throughout the set.
Recorded live, You Can’t Argue with a Sick Mind offers a thrilling snapshot of Walsh’s work before he fully transitioned into the Eagles. Featuring standout performances from some of rock’s most iconic musicians, the album is often celebrated as one of Walsh’s finest live recordings, blending his bluesy rock with masterful musicianship.
Track Listing:
“Walk Away” – 3:21
“Meadows” – 7:08
“Rocky Mountain Way” – 7:40
“Time Out” – 4:22
“Help Me Through the Night” – 3:43
“Turn to Stone” – 8:44
All Night Long: Live in Dallas
Released 2013
All Night Long: Live in Dallas is the second solo live album by Joe Walsh, capturing a high-energy performance recorded at the Reunion Arena in Dallas, Texas, on July 10, 1981, for the King Biscuit Flower Hour radio show. At the time, Walsh was touring to support his solo album There Goes the Neighborhood, following the breakup of Eagles. This live album offers a powerful selection of Walsh’s greatest hits, showcasing his signature blend of rock, blues, and funk with highlights from his solo career, James Gang days, and even a cover of the Beatles’ “Get Back.”
The reunion with his former Barnstorm bandmate Joe Vitale and the use of a stellar backing band created a rich, dynamic sound that resonates through the entire concert. Walsh performs some of his best-known tracks such as “Life’s Been Good” and “Rocky Mountain Way,” delivering spirited renditions that prove why he remains one of the most respected figures in rock. A mix of extended jams and tight performances make this recording a must for fans, with its unfiltered, raw energy representing Walsh’s prowess on stage.
All Night Long: Live in Dallas features a stellar lineup of musicians accompanying Joe Walsh in his energetic live performance. Joe Walsh himself leads the band with his signature vocals, guitars, and piano work. Russ Kunkel holds down the rhythm on drums, while Mike Murphy, formerly of REO Speedwagon, adds his expertise on keyboards. George “Chocolate” Perry handles bass guitar duties, also contributing backing vocals to round out the sound. Longtime collaborator Joe Vitale plays a multi-instrumental role, contributing drums, flute, keyboards, and backing vocals, enriching the sonic depth of the live performance.
With a setlist full of crowd favorites and some deeper cuts, All Night Long: Live in Dallas exemplifies Walsh’s guitar wizardry and playful stage presence. It’s a reminder of his essential role in shaping American rock music during the 1970s and early 1980s. Despite the unofficial nature of its CD release, this live recording continues to be appreciated for its powerful performances and deep connection to Walsh’s storied career.
Brian Kachejian was born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx. He is the founder and Editor in Chief of ClassicRockHistory.com. He has spent thirty years in the music business often working with many of the people who have appeared on this site. Brian Kachejian also holds B.A. and M.A. degrees from Stony Brook University along with New York State Public School Education Certifications in Music and Social Studies. Brian Kachejian is also an active member of the New York Press.