In 1973, Joe Walsh feared his solo career was a mistake. One song saved his life
After leaving the James Gang in 1971, Joe Walsh’s attempt to establish a solo career looked uncertain: his 1972 album *Barnstorm* failed to produce a hit, and he feared the decision to leave the band had been a mistake. Writing ‘Rocky Mountain Way’ changed that trajectory, giving his next album a song he believed could connect with listeners and helping secure his future in music.
Walsh formed Barnstorm with drummer Joe Vitale and bassist Kenny Passarelli, who helped develop the song’s rhythm around his guitar riff. ‘Rocky Mountain Way’ appeared on 1973’s *The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get*; Walsh later said the album “saved my life”. The track also showcased his slide guitar playing and distinctive talk box sound.
In short
- ‘Rocky Mountain Way’ helped revive Joe Walsh’s solo career.
- His debut album *Barnstorm* had failed to produce a hit.
- Slide guitar and talk box shaped the track’s sound.
Explained simply
Joe Walsh is an American guitarist and songwriter who first became known as a member of the rock band the James Gang. He left the group in 1971 to pursue a solo career and formed Barnstorm with drummer Joe Vitale and bassist Kenny Passarelli.
Walsh’s first album with Barnstorm, released in 1972, did not produce a hit, leaving him unsure about his decision to leave the James Gang. The band’s next album, The Smoker You Drink, the Player You Get, included “Rocky Mountain Way”, which grew from a guitar riff and the group’s work on its rhythm.
The song became known for Walsh’s slide guitar and talk box sound, an effect that makes a guitar resemble a voice. Its success helped establish his solo career and gave him a lasting place in rock music.