Joe Walsh

Joe Walsh ticket for June 24, 1981 at the Spectrum
Joe Walsh ticket for June 24, 1981 at the Spectrum.

Joe Walsh has long been an inspiration to me. As a singer-songwriter without the strongest vocals, he reminds me a bit of myself. He’s also managed his career largely on his own terms, writing and releasing the music he wanted rather than what a record company tried to dictate. I’ve seen him live many times over the years, and what follows are some of the highlights.

At the Spectrum — 1981

The first time I saw Joe was during the There Goes the Neighborhood tour on Wednesday, June 24, 1981, at the Spectrum in Philadelphia. The opening act was David Lindley, who later joined Joe on stage for a few songs.

Meadows
Over and Over
In the City
A Life of Illusion
The Bomber (Closet Queen / Bolero / Cast Your Fate to the Wind – James Gang)
Dreams
Theme From Boat Weirdos
Funk #49 (James Gang)
Rivers (Of the Hidden Funk)
You Never Know
Life's Been Good
Rocky Mountain Way
Encore: All Night Long

Valley Forge Music Fair — 1988

One of my most memorable Joe Walsh shows was at the Valley Forge Music Fair in Devon, PA, on June 28, 1988. The stage was in the round, so every seat felt close. After the show, we were the first people backstage to meet Joe. He was incredibly down to earth and invited us to stay and hang out while other fans came through. A truly unforgettable night.

Welcome to the Club
Walk Away (James Gang)
Life in the Fast Lane (Eagles)
Turn to Stone
In the City
White Summer (Yardbirds)
The Confessor
Funk #49 (James Gang)
Rocky Mountain Way
Life's Been Good
I.L.B.T.s
All Night Long

Camden Waterfront — June 12, 2016

The last time I saw Joe was on the One Hell of a Night tour at the BB&T Pavilion in Camden, New Jersey with Bad Company.

Photo Gallery

Walk Away (James Gang)
Analog Man
Mother Says
The Bomber (James Gang)
Take It to the Limit (Eagles – Tribute to Glenn Frey)
Turn to Stone
In the City
Funk #49 (James Gang)
Life's Been Good
Life in the Fast Lane (Eagles)
Encore: Rocky Mountain Way