History of Joe Walsh in Timeline

Share: FB Share X Share Reddit Share Reddit Share
Joe Walsh

Joe Walsh is an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter renowned for his versatile career spanning five decades. He gained prominence as a member of the Eagles but also contributed to bands like the James Gang and Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band. Beyond his band affiliations, Walsh has thrived as a solo artist, a prolific session musician collaborating with numerous artists, and a participant in the supergroup The Best. His guitar skills have earned him recognition, including a place on Rolling Stone's list of "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time."

3 hours ago : Vince Gill Covers for Ill Joe Walsh, Ringo Starr's Collaboration, and Wylde's Inspiration

Vince Gill replaced Joe Walsh at an Eagles show while Walsh was ill. Ringo Starr and Joe Walsh co-wrote four songs. Zakk Wylde was inspired by Walsh for a guitar solo.

November 20, 1947: Joe Walsh Born

On November 20, 1947, Joseph Fidler Walsh, also known as Joe Walsh, was born in Wichita, Kansas. He is an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter.

Others born on this day/year

July 22, 1949: Father's Death

On July 22, 1949, Joe Walsh's father, Lt. Robert Newton Fidler, a pilot in the United States Air Force, died in a mid-air collision during maneuvers over Okinawa. He was flying a Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star.

1959: Acquired the 1959 sunburst Gibson Les Paul

In 1959, Joe Walsh acquired a 1959 sunburst Gibson Les Paul.

1959: Gretsch 6120 Made

The 1959 Gretsch 6120 was manufactured in 1959.

1965: Forms The Measles

In 1965, Joe Walsh formed The Measles, a garage bar band, with three other Kent State University students. The band recorded songs that were later credited to Ohio Express.

1967: Glenn Schwartz Leaves James Gang

Around Christmas of 1967, Glenn Schwartz left the James Gang to move to California, leading to Joe Walsh being offered a tryout as his replacement.

May 1968: James Gang Opens for Cream as a Trio

In May 1968, the James Gang played a concert in Detroit, opening for Cream as a trio after Ronnie Silverman decided not to perform, leading them to embrace the trio format.

1968: James Gang Signs with Manager Mark Barger

In 1968, the James Gang signed with manager Mark Barger, who was also managing the Lemon Pipers.

1968: Bill Jeric Leaves James Gang

In the spring of 1968, Bill Jeric left James Gang.

January 1969: James Gang Signed to Bluesway Records

In January 1969, after manager Mark Barger connected them with Bill Szymczyk, the James Gang signed with ABC's Bluesway Records subsidiary.

November 1969: Tom Kriss Leaves James Gang

In November 1969, bassist Tom Kriss left the James Gang and was replaced by Dale Peters.

1969: Sells Guitar to Jimmy Page

In 1969, Joe Walsh sold his 1959 sunburst Gibson Les Paul guitar to Jimmy Page, who named it his "Number 1".

1970: Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs album release

In 1970, Eric Clapton released Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs. Duane Allman played slide technique on the album.

1970: Gives Guitar to Pete Townshend

In 1970, Joe Walsh gave a 1959 Gretsch 6120 guitar to Pete Townshend of The Who, who used it to record tracks on albums such as Who's Next and Quadrophenia.

1970: Kent State Massacre

In 1970, Joe Walsh was present during the Kent State massacre, which profoundly affected him and contributed to his decision to leave college.

1970: James Gang Rides Again Album Release

In 1970, the James Gang released the album 'James Gang Rides Again', which included the classic song "Funk 49".

Loading Video...

April 29, 1971: Birth of Daughter Emma Kristen

On April 29, 1971, Joe Walsh's eldest daughter, Emma Kristen, was born.

Others born on this day/year

December 1971: Steve Marriott Invites Walsh to Join Humble Pie

In December 1971, Steve Marriott invited Joe Walsh to join Humble Pie after Peter Frampton's departure, but Walsh declined.

1971: Marriage to Stefany Rhodes

In 1971, Joe Walsh married Stefany Rhodes.

1971: Thirds Album Release

In 1971, the James Gang released the album 'Thirds', which included the song "Walk Away".

Loading Video...

October 1972: Barnstorm's Debut Album Released

In October 1972, Joe Walsh and Barnstorm released their debut album, 'Barnstorm'.

1972: Eagles Live Release

In 1972, Eagles Live was released, featuring Joe Walsh's songs "Life's Been Good" and "All Night Long", which originated from his solo career.

Loading Video...

1972: Walsh Leaves James Gang and Forms Barnstorm

In 1972, Joe Walsh left the James Gang and formed the band Barnstorm with Joe Vitale and Kenny Passarelli.

1972: Straight Shooter and Passin' Thru Release

In 1972, Straight Shooter and Passin' Thru, albums by The James Gang featuring Roy Kenner and Domenic Troiano were released.

June 1973: The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get Released

In June 1973, Joe Walsh released 'The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get' under his name, although it was officially a Barnstorm album. The single "Rocky Mountain Way" became a hit.

Loading Video...

1973: Recording of "A Life of Illusion"

In 1973, "A Life of Illusion" was originally recorded with Walsh's first solo band Barnstorm, but was not completed until the 'There Goes the Neighborhood' sessions.

Loading Video...

1973: Domenic Troiano Leaves James Gang

In 1973, Domenic Troiano left The James Gang.

1973: Slide Guitar Solo on Michael Stanley's Song

In 1973, Joe Walsh supplied the slide guitar solo on Michael Stanley's song 'Rosewood Bitters'.

Loading Video...

April 1, 1974: Death of Daughter Emma Kristen

On April 1, 1974, Joe Walsh's daughter Emma Kristen died from injuries sustained in a car accident. This tragedy inspired the track "Song for Emma" on his album So What.

Loading Video...

December 1974: So What Album Release

In December 1974, Joe Walsh released the album 'So What', which contained introspective material and featured backing vocals from Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and Randy Meisner of the Eagles.

1974: Barnstorm Disbands

In 1974, Barnstorm disbanded and Joe Walsh continued as a solo artist.

1974: Barnstorm's 'So What' Released

In 1974, Barnstorm released the album 'So What', which featured significant contributions from members of the Eagles.

1974: Production of Dan Fogelberg's 'Souvenirs' Album

In 1974, Joe Walsh produced Dan Fogelberg's 'Souvenirs' album and played various instruments, providing backing vocals.

1974: Walsh Plays Slide Guitar on Vitale's Album

In late 1974, Joe Walsh played slide guitar on Joe Vitale's debut solo album, 'Roller Coaster Weekend'.

1974: Tommy Bolin Joins James Gang

In late 1974, Tommy Bolin joined The James Gang after being recommended by Joe Walsh.

1975: 'Souvenirs' Album Chart Success

In 1975, Dan Fogelberg's Souvenirs Album, which Joe Walsh produced, reached No. 17 on the Billboard album chart.

1975: Walsh Joins Eagles

In 1975, Joe Walsh joined the Eagles as a guitarist and keyboardist, replacing Bernie Leadon, at the suggestion of producer Bill Szymczyk. The first album with the Eagles was Hotel California.

1975: Barnstorm's Last Tour

In the spring of 1975, Barnstorm embarked on its last tour, shortly after Joe Walsh joined the Eagles.

March 1976: Release of 'You Can't Argue with a Sick Mind'

In March 1976, Joe Walsh released a live album, 'You Can't Argue with a Sick Mind', which also featured the Eagles.

December 8, 1976: Hotel California Album Released

On December 8, 1976, the Eagles released their fifth studio album, 'Hotel California', which was the first to feature Joe Walsh.

May 3, 1977: "Life in the Fast Lane" Release

On May 3, 1977, the Eagles released the song "Life in the Fast Lane", which was based on a riff by Joe Walsh. The song reached No. 11 on the charts and helped solidify Walsh's role in the band.

Loading Video...

May 1977: "Hotel California" Tops the Charts

In May 1977, the Eagles' song "Hotel California" topped the charts, becoming one of their signature songs. It features Henley on lead vocals and a guitar duet by Felder and Walsh.

Loading Video...

1977: Randy Meisner Leaves Eagles

In 1977, Randy Meisner, a founding member, left the Eagles after the 1977 tour and was replaced by Timothy B. Schmit.

1977: Eagles Begin Work on The Long Run

In 1977, The Eagles began working on their next album, 'The Long Run'.

1977: Eagles Contribute to Randy Newman's Album

In 1977, the Eagles (minus Don Felder) performed instrumental work and backing vocals for Randy Newman's album 'Little Criminals', including the song "Short People".

Loading Video...

May 1978: Release of 'But Seriously, Folks...' Album

In May 1978, Joe Walsh released the critically acclaimed album, 'But Seriously, Folks...'. The album included the hit single "Life's Been Good", which reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Loading Video...

1978: Divorce from Stefany Rhodes

In 1978, Joe Walsh divorced Stefany Rhodes.

1978: "Please Come Home for Christmas" Single

In 1978, the Eagles released “Please Come Home for Christmas” as a single, reaching No. 18 on the charts.

Loading Video...

September 24, 1979: The Long Run Album Released

On September 24, 1979, The Eagles released 'The Long Run', which reached the top of the charts and sold 7 million copies. The album featured the singles “Heartache Tonight,” “The Long Run,” and “I Can't Tell You Why,” and “In the City”.

Loading Video...

1979: Contribution to 'The Warriors' Soundtrack

In 1979, Joe Walsh contributed the song "In the City", which he penned and sung, to 'The Warriors' soundtrack. The song was later rerecorded for the Eagles' album, 'The Long Run'.

Loading Video...

July 1980: Eagles Breakup and Solo Career Continuation

Following the breakup of the Eagles in July 1980, Joe Walsh continued to release solo albums throughout the 1980s, but sales did not match his earlier success.

1980: Mock Presidential Campaign

In 1980, Joe Walsh announced a mock presidential campaign promising to make "Life's Been Good" the new national anthem, and ran on a platform of "Free Gas For Everyone".

Loading Video...

1980: Marriage to Juanita Boyer

In 1980, Joe Walsh married Juanita Boyer.

1980: The Eagles Break Up

In 1980, The Eagles broke up.

1981: Work on John Entwistle's 'Too Late the Hero' Album

In 1981, Joe Walsh and Joe Vitale worked on John Entwistle's fifth solo album 'Too Late the Hero', contributing to the album's success.

1981: 'A Life of Illusion' Tops Charts

In 1981, Joe Walsh's album 'There Goes the Neighborhood' peaked at No. 20 on the Billboard 200. The album's single, "A Life of Illusion", topped the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and became one of Walsh's most popular songs.

Loading Video...

1982: Background Musician on Don Henley's "Dirty Laundry"

In 1982, Joe Walsh played background guitar on Don Henley's hit song "Dirty Laundry".

Loading Video...

May 1983: Release of 'You Bought It – You Name It'

In May 1983, Joe Walsh released the album 'You Bought It – You Name It', which received mixed reviews and peaked at No. 48 on the Billboard 200. The album included the single "Space Age Whiz Kids".

Loading Video...

1984: Performance with The Party Boys

In late 1984, Joe Walsh was invited by Paul Christie to perform in Australia with The Party Boys, appearing on their late-1984-early-1985 tour.

1984: Touring with Stevie Nicks

While touring with Stevie Nicks in 1984, Joe Walsh took Nicks to the North Boulder Park fountain dedicated to his late daughter, inspiring her song "Has Anyone Ever Written Anything for You?".

1985: Stevie Nicks Releases "Rock A Little"

In 1985, Stevie Nicks released her album Rock A Little, which included the song "Has Anyone Ever Written Anything for You?", inspired by Joe Walsh's memorial to his daughter.

Loading Video...

1985: Creatures From America Tour

In early 1985, Joe Walsh put together the short-lived touring band 'Creatures From America' with Waddy Wachtel, Rick Rosas, and Richard Harvey in Australia.

1987: Release of 'Got Any Gum?'

In 1987, Joe Walsh released his final solo album of the 1980s, 'Got Any Gum?', produced by Terry Manning, with vocal contributions from JD Souther and Jimi Jamison. The album was a commercial disappointment.

1987: Work on 'Got Any Gum?' Album

In 1987, Joe Walsh returned to the United States to work on his album 'Got Any Gum?', which was produced by Terry Manning and features vocal contributions from JD Souther and Jimi Jamison.

1988: Divorce from Juanita Boyer

In 1988, Joe Walsh divorced Juanita Boyer.

1989: Epiphany at Otatara Pa

In 1989, Joe Walsh experienced an epiphany during a visit to Otatara Pa while touring with the New Zealand band Herbs.

1989: Collaborations and Performances

In 1989, Joe Walsh recorded an MTV Unplugged with Dr. John and filmed a live concert called Jazzvisions: Jump the Blues Away with Etta James and Albert Collins.

Loading Video...

1989: Touring with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band

In 1989, Joe Walsh toured with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band, alternating a handful of his best-known songs with Starr's and tunes by other members of the All-Starr Band.

1989: Return to Australia and Tour with The Party Boys

In 1989, after the commercial disappointment of the album 'Got Any Gum?', Joe Walsh decided to return to Australia to tour with another incarnation of The Party Boys.

1990: Collaboration with Herbs

In 1990, after briefly joining New Zealand reggae band Herbs while producing their 'Homegrown' album in 1989, he appeared as lead singer on two tracks: 'Up All Night' and 'It's Alright'.

Loading Video...

1990: Performances with The Best

In late 1990, Joe Walsh was part of a band called The Best, along with Keith Emerson, John Entwistle, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter, and Simon Phillips. The band performed several shows in Hawaii and Japan.

1991: Blackout on Airplane to Paris

In 1991, Joe Walsh blacked out on an airplane to Paris, which he cites as another turning point in his recovery.

1991: Release of 'Ordinary Average Guy'

In 1991, Joe Walsh released his ninth solo studio album, 'Ordinary Average Guy', and its title track single, on the Epic label. The album featured Ringo Starr, Jimi Jamison, and Joe Vitale.

1992: Mock Vice Presidential Campaign

In 1992, Joe Walsh ran for vice president with Rev. Goat Carson under the slogan "We Want Our Money Back!".

1992: Release of 'Songs for a Dying Planet'

In 1992, Joe Walsh released 'Songs for a Dying Planet', his ninth solo studio album. The song "Vote for Me" achieved minor success, peaking at No. 10 on the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.

Loading Video...

1992: Touring with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band

In 1992, Joe Walsh toured with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band, alternating a handful of his best-known songs with Starr's and tunes by other members of the All-Starr Band.

1993: "Party of Two" Tour and Flew Performance

In 1993, Joe Walsh teamed up with Glenn Frey for the 'Party of Two' tour in the United States. Also in 1993, Walsh put together an informal group called the Flew with Terry Reid, Nicky Hopkins, Rick Rosas, and Phil Jones and they played one show.

1993: Release of Eagles Tribute Album and Reunion

In 1993, an Eagles country tribute album titled 'Common Thread: The Songs of the Eagles' was released. Subsequently, after years of speculation, the band formally reunited, comprising Frey, Henley, Walsh, Felder, and Schmit.

1993: Begins Recovery from Addiction

Joe Walsh has been in recovery from alcohol and drug addictions since 1993.

April 1994: Eagles Reunion and Tour Announcement

In April 1994, the Eagles announced their reunion with their first live performance, stating they had taken a '14-year vacation'.

September 1994: Interruption of Eagles Tour

In September 1994, the Eagles' reunion tour was interrupted due to a recurrence of Glenn Frey's diverticulitis.

1995: Resumption of Eagles Tour

The Eagles' interrupted tour resumed in 1995 and continued into 1996.

November 4, 1996: James Gang Reunion for President Bill Clinton

On November 4, 1996, The James Gang did a reunion with the classic lineup (Walsh, Peters, Fox) for President Bill Clinton at the Cleveland State University Convocation Center.

1996: Sister-in-Law Susan Walsh Missing

Since 1996, Joe Walsh's sister-in-law, Susan Walsh, has been a missing person.

1996: Continuation of Eagles Tour

The Eagles reunion tour which had been interrupted in September 1994 due to Glenn Frey's diverticulitis, continued into 1996.

1998: Guitarist Magazine and Guitar World Awards

In 1998, Guitarist magazine readers voted the guitar solos by Joe Walsh and Don Felder on "Hotel California" the best guitar solos ever. Also in 1998, Guitar World ranked the solos eighth in the Top 100 Guitar Solos.

1998: Rocky Mountain Elway Performance

In 1998, Joe Walsh rewrote the lyrics to 'Rocky Mountain Way' for quarterback John Elway of the Denver Broncos, renaming it 'Rocky Mountain Elway', and appeared in a video shown on Monday Night Football.

Loading Video...

1998: "New Year's Eve" on 'The Waterboy' Soundtrack

In 1998, Joe Walsh's song "New Year's Eve" was featured on the soundtrack of the film 'The Waterboy'.

Loading Video...

1998: Eagles Inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

In 1998, the Eagles, including Joe Walsh, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. All seven members played together for two songs.

1999: Marriage to Denise Driscoll

In 1999, Joe Walsh married Denise Driscoll.

1999: Release of Selected Works: 1972-1999

In 1999, the Eagles box set Selected Works: 1972-1999 was released, which included "Funk 49" from Walsh's time in the James Gang.

Loading Video...

November 2000: Release of 'Selected Works: 1972–1999' Box Set

In November 2000, the Eagles' concert recordings were released on CD as part of the four-disc 'Selected Works: 1972–1999' box set.

2000: The James Gang Greatest Hits Re-Release

In 2000, "Laguna Salada" and "Country Fever" reappeared as bonus tracks on the re-release of The James Gang Greatest Hits album.

Loading Video...

December 2001: Honorary Degree from Kent State University

In December 2001, Kent State University awarded Joe Walsh an honorary degree in music.

2001: Eagles Inducted into Vocal Group Hall of Fame

In 2001, as a member of the Eagles, Joe Walsh was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.

2001: Eagles Tour Begins

The Eagles' lineup consisting of Joe Walsh, Glenn Frey, Don Henley and Timothy B. Schmit, started touring in 2001.

2002: 'Selected Works: 1972-1999' Receives Platinum Certification

In 2002, the album 'Selected Works: 1972-1999' received platinum certification from the RIAA.

2003: Release of 'The Very Best Of.'

In 2003, The Eagles released a greatest hits album including the entire Eagles career, 'The Very Best Of.'

June 2004: Performance at Crossroads Guitar Festival

In June 2004, Joe Walsh performed at Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival in Dallas, Texas.

September 2004: Featured at Strat Pack Concert

In September 2004, Joe Walsh was featured at the Strat Pack, a concert held in London, England, to mark the 50th anniversary of the Fender Stratocaster guitar.

October 2004: Speaking Engagements in New Zealand

In October 2004, Joe Walsh gave speaking engagements in New Zealand to warn against substance abuse. He cited a previous visit to Otatara Pa in 1989 as the beginning of his journey to good health.

2004: Return Visit to New Zealand

In 2004, during a return visit to New Zealand, Joe Walsh described his 1989 experience at Otatara Pa and hailed it as the beginning of his recovery.

2005: Release of 'Farewell 1 Tour-Live from Melbourne' DVD

In 2005, The Eagles released a live two-disc DVD, 'Farewell 1 Tour-Live from Melbourne', featuring two new songs: Frey's "No More Cloudy Days" and Walsh's "One Day at a Time".

Loading Video...

2006: Divorce from Denise Driscoll

In 2006, Joe Walsh divorced Denise Driscoll.

2006: Donates Guitar to ARRL Charity Auction

In 2006, Joe Walsh donated an autographed guitar to the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) for its charity auction.

2006: James Gang Reunion

In 2006, Joe Walsh reunited with Jim Fox and Dale Peters of the James Gang for new recordings and a 15-date summer reunion tour, which lasted into the fall.

2007: Lucy Walsh Releases Debut Album

In 2007, Joe Walsh's daughter Lucy Walsh, released her debut solo album, Lost in the Lights.

2007: Stevie Nicks Reflects on Relationship with Walsh

In 2007, Stevie Nicks said that Joe Walsh had been "the great love of my life" and attributed their breakup to cocaine use.

2007: Eagles Release 'How Long' and 'Long Road Out of Eden'

In 2007, The Eagles, including Joe Walsh, released the single "How Long", written by JD Souther. Later that year, the Walsh-era Eagles released 'Long Road Out of Eden', their first album of all-new material since 1979.

Loading Video...

December 13, 2008: Marriage to Marjorie Bach

On December 13, 2008, Joe Walsh married Marjorie Bach in Los Angeles.

2008: Appearance on Carvin 60th Anniversary Celebration DVD

In 2008, Joe Walsh appeared on the Carvin 60th Anniversary Celebration DVD as a celebrity endorser, praising Carvin Guitars.

2008: Funds Kent State University Scholarship

In 2008, Joe Walsh funded the first talent-based scholarship at Kent State University.

2008: Eagles Launch World Tour for 'Long Road Out of Eden'

In 2008, the Eagles, including Joe Walsh, began a world tour in support of 'Long Road Out of Eden'.

2011: Theme Song for Ham Nation Podcast

In 2011, Joe Walsh provided the theme song for the TWiT podcast Ham Nation and appeared as a guest in the first podcast.

2011: Ranked in Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Guitarists

In 2011, Rolling Stone ranked Joe Walsh at No. 54 on its list of "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time".

February 12, 2012: Grammy Awards Appearance

On February 12, 2012, Joe Walsh appeared on stage with Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Dave Grohl, and McCartney's band at the Staples Center in Los Angeles during the Grammy Awards.

May 2012: Honorary Doctorate from Berklee College of Music

In May 2012, the Berklee College of Music awarded Joe Walsh, along with other members of the Eagles, an honorary doctorate for his accomplishments in the field of music.

November 15, 2012: Appearance on Live from Daryl's House

On November 15, 2012, Joe Walsh appeared on the 60th episode of Live from Daryl's House with Daryl Hall.

Loading Video...

2012: Walsh Comments on Kent State

In 2012, Joe Walsh reflected on the Kent State shootings, stating that the experience influenced his decision to leave college and pursue a music career.

2012: Considering a Serious Political Bid

In 2012, Joe Walsh revealed he was considering a serious bid for political office, specifically for Congress.

2012: Release of 'Analog Man'

In June 2012, Joe Walsh released his latest solo album, 'Analog Man', co-produced by Jeff Lynne. The album features the song "One Day at a Time" which details Walsh's struggles with alcohol and drug abuse earlier in his career.

Loading Video...

February 9, 2014: Appearance on Grammy Salute to The Beatles

On February 9, 2014, Joe Walsh was featured in several songs on the CBS special The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute to the Beatles.

Loading Video...

2014: Guest Appearance on Sonic Highways

In 2014, Joe Walsh made a guest appearance on Foo Fighters' eighth studio album Sonic Highways.

May 24, 2016: Appearance on The Voice

On May 24, 2016, Joe Walsh appeared on NBC's The Voice, playing slide guitar, talk box, and performing "Rocky Mountain Way" with contestant Laith Al-Saadi.

Loading Video...

2017: Organizing VetsAid Concert Series

In 2017, Joe Walsh contacted others in the music industry to organize and perform VetsAid, a concert series for veterans similar to Willie Nelson's Farm Aid.

September 3, 2022: Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert at Wembley Stadium

On September 3, 2022, Joe Walsh appeared in London with the reunited James Gang at the Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert at Wembley Stadium. Dave Grohl played drums with James Gang on "Funk 49".

Loading Video...

September 27, 2022: Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert at Kia Forum

On September 27, 2022, Joe Walsh appeared with the James Gang at the Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California. Dave Grohl played drums on "Funk 49".

Loading Video...

2022: VetsAid Benefit Performance

In 2022, Joe Walsh performed a nine-song set with the James Gang at the VetsAid benefit, followed by a four-song finale. Dave Grohl played guitar on "Life's Been Good" and drums on "Rocky Mountain Way".

Loading Video...