In The City

The song "In The City" by the Eagles, featured on their 1979 album The Long Run, has a fascinating origin story rooted in Hollywood's gritty underbelly. Originally written by Joe Walsh and Barry De Vorzon for the 1979 cult classic film The Warriors, the track was first a Joe Walsh solo piece played over the movie’s closing credits, capturing the raw energy of a New York street gang’s struggle. Walsh, already a member of the Eagles, brought the song to the band, who re-recorded it for The Long Run, giving it a smoother, fuller sound with their signature harmonies. According to De Vorzon in a 2022 interview with the Tennessean, Walsh called him excitedly to share that the Eagles wanted to include it, but De Vorzon, wary of disappointment, told Walsh not to mention it again until the album was in hand. This marked a rare instance of the Eagles covering an outside song, as they typically relied on their own compositions or those from close associates like JD Souther. The Eagles’ version, with Walsh’s fiery lead guitar and Henley’s polished production, became a live staple, with fans on Reddit noting its electrifying performance on the Hell Freezes Over album, where the crowd erupts from the opening chords.

Another layer of trivia comes from the song’s context within The Long Run’s creation. The album, intended as a double LP, was scaled back due to the band’s struggle to write enough material, as noted in a Wikipedia entry. Walsh’s "In The City" filled a critical gap, alongside Timothy B. Schmit’s "I Can’t Tell You Why" and Don Felder’s contributions. Fans on Reddit have pointed out subtle differences between Walsh’s solo version and the Eagles’ take, with the former being grittier, fitting the gang warfare vibe of The Warriors, while the Eagles’ version leaned into their polished rock sound. A Songfacts commenter, Mayank from Ranchi, India, praised Walsh’s humorous vocal delivery and the lyrics’ reflection on urban isolation, while another fan noted the Eagles’ version ends with a nod to The Beatles’ "Day Tripper" riff in live performances. Posts on X highlight its enduring appeal, with users sharing the song’s cinematic roots and its place in the Eagles’ legacy.

The Eagles’ journey began in Los Angeles in 1971, sparked by a serendipitous connection through Linda Ronstadt. Founding members Glenn Frey (guitar, vocals), Don Henley (drums, vocals), Bernie Leadon (guitar, vocals), and Randy Meisner (bass, vocals) had all played in Ronstadt’s backup band, with some touring and others contributing to her 1972 self-titled album. Their chemistry led manager David Geffen to sign them to his new Asylum Records label. Their 1972 debut, Eagles, blended country rock with hits like "Take It Easy" and "Witchy Woman," establishing them as a defining voice of the 1970s. The addition of Don Felder in 1974 and Joe Walsh in 1975 hardened their sound, culminating in the iconic Hotel California. Timothy B. Schmit replaced Meisner in 1977, contributing to The Long Run. With over 200 million records sold, six Grammy Awards, and a 1998 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, the Eagles remain one of America’s most influential bands.

Stay connected with the Eagles through their official website, where you can find tour dates and news. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Fans can join vibrant communities like the Eagles Fan Club on Facebook or explore tribute bands such as TLR – Experience the Eagles Music and The Long Run, which recreate the band’s magic with stunning accuracy. Another fan hub, The Long Run – Colorado’s Tribute, celebrates the Eagles’ legacy with performances across the Rockies.