Joe Walsh as Joe Walsh


Not completely unlike youngsters who were amazed that Paul McCartney was in a band prior to Wings, there are those that don’t realize that Joe Walsh had a pretty significant career before he joined the Eagles. In fact, many thought it to be nothing more than a publicity stunt when it was announced he’d be joining the band. I recall being confused, as I couldn’t imagine why he’d want to forgo the obvious creative control of being a solo artist. While I’m certain Walsh was doing fairly well financially (although he has at least 4 ex wives!), the riches of sharing in the Eagles many revenue streams would undeniably lead to a pot of gold. Still, I was a fan of Joe Walsh, soloist, long before there was a Joe Walsh, Eagles guitarist.

If you are unaware of Walsh’s pre-Eagles’ days or merely want to refresh your memory of his solo career, the following 10 tracks will confirm Walsh’s greatness in both writing and performing before he soared as an Eagle.

Walk Away
The James Gang was Walsh’s first significant band, and this track is from their 3rd LP.



Book Ends
Multi-instrumentalist and Barnstorm band member Joe Vitale’s talents are evident throughout.



Meadows
Best song on an LP that’s a serious contender for best Rock LP ever.





Days Gone By
I recently commented that this should’ve been the theme song of a generation!



Day Dream
Simply a beautiful song.





Falling Down
Listen……………



Time Out
Pure Walsh




Turn To Stone
Originally released on the first Barnstorm LP, the improved arrangement here is superior.



Tomorrow
Love the content and attitude on this one.



Theme from Boat Wierdos
If this instrumental could speak, I mean really speak, we’d know all we need to know about Joe.




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