Throughout his extensive career, Walsh has played with six notable bands: the Eagles, James Gang, Barnstorm, The Party Boys, Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band, and The Best. His time with the Eagles, beginning in 1975, is often seen as a pivotal period in his career. The band’s success reached new heights with the release of the album Hotel California—the first to feature Walsh—which included the legendary track of the same name. The dual guitar solo on "Hotel California," performed by Walsh and Don Felder, is frequently cited as one of the greatest guitar solos in rock history.

As a solo artist, Walsh has released twelve albums, earning acclaim for hits such as "Life's Been Good," "Rocky Mountain Way," "A Life of Illusion," and "Ordinary Average Guy." He is especially celebrated for his signature riffs and guitar techniques, including his use of the talk box and mastery across rhythm, slide, acoustic, and electric guitar styles. Notable tracks showcasing his technical skill include "Funk #49," "Meadows," and "Rocky Mountain Way."

Walsh's contributions to rock were formally acknowledged in 1998 when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Eagles. He has been admired and credited by iconic musicians such as Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, and Pete Townshend for his distinctive sound and playing style.

Early Life and Education

Joseph Fidler Walsh was born on November 20, 1947, in Wichita, Kansas. His middle name, Fidler, was his biological father's surname. His mother, a classically trained pianist of German and Scottish descent, greatly influenced his early exposure to music. Tragically, his father, who was of English origin, died in a plane crash when Joe was just five years old.

Walsh attended Montclair High School in New Jersey, where he played the oboe in the school band. Greatly inspired by The Beatles during his teenage years, he began to cultivate his passion for rock music and performance. During his time at Kent State University, he joined local bands including The Measles and The Nomads, gradually evolving into a skilled multi-instrumentalist.

The Eagles and Musical Collaboration

Walsh's most commercially successful period came after joining the Eagles in 1975. Contributing to albums such as Hotel California and The Long Run, he helped shape the band’s blues-rock sound and was vital to their success during the late 1970s. The Eagles’ critically acclaimed reunion album, Hell Freezes Over, released in 1994, included the Billboard #1 live version of the title track, further solidifying the band's legacy and Walsh’s prominence within it.

In addition to his solo and band ventures, Walsh has worked as a session musician and record producer, lending his skills to various artists and projects across genres.