I Can Play That Rock & Roll

The Zoo Crew is spinning I Can Play That Rock & Roll by Joe Walsh, a track from his 1983 album You Bought It - You Name It, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it! This song kicks off the album with a punchy, throwback vibe, showcasing Walsh’s signature wit and gritty guitar riffs. In a review from Rate Your Music, the track is praised for its “loony edge” and enough charm to stand alongside Walsh’s earlier hit Life’s Been Good as a cheeky take on the music industry. The song’s raw energy reflects Walsh’s unpolished, I-do-it-my-way style, blending hard rock with a playful nod to his rockstar persona. Interestingly, the album itself marked Walsh’s deep dive into the 80s sound, with synths and lighter arrangements, but I Can Play That Rock & Roll stays true to his roots, delivering a safe yet spirited opener that longtime fans could rally behind.

Another layer to the song’s context comes from Walsh’s own reflections on his career. In a 2016 Rolling Stone interview, Walsh described himself as an “ordinary average guy,” a tongue-in-cheek self-assessment given his wild reputation. This attitude shines through in I Can Play That Rock & Roll, where he leans into his image as a no-nonsense rocker. The album, produced by Bill Szymczyk, featured collaborators like Joe Vitale and Waddy Wachtel, who helped Walsh craft its eclectic mix. While the song didn’t chart as high as his earlier hits, its bold declaration of rock prowess made it a fan favorite, especially for those who appreciated Walsh’s humor and authenticity. On X, Walsh has shared stories about connecting with fans, like in a 2021 post where he discussed his music’s impact during a visit to a US Vets facility, highlighting how his songs, including those from this era, resonate deeply with listeners.

Joe Walsh got his start in Wichita, Kansas, born on November 20, 1947, to a musical family where his mother’s piano playing filled the house. As a kid, he moved around to Ohio, Chicago, and Montclair, New Jersey, picking up the guitar at age 10 and learning The Ventures’ Walk, Don’t Run. By his teens, he was hooked on rock ‘n’ roll, developing a passion for ham radio and playing in local bands. After attending Kent State University, Walsh joined the Cleveland-based James Gang in 1968, replacing Glen Schwartz as lead guitarist. His hotwired guitar style and overdrive attack on tracks like Funk #49 brought the band national fame, cementing his reputation as a formidable player. In 1972, craving a new sound, he left the James Gang and moved to Colorado, forming Barnstorm with Joe Vitale and Kenny Passarelli. Their debut album, recorded at the soon-to-be-legendary Caribou Ranch, showcased Walsh’s experimental edge, blending rock, folk, and effects like ARP Odyssey synths. This period laid the groundwork for his solo career, leading to hits like Rocky Mountain Way and his eventual role in the Eagles by 1975.

Fans can keep up with Joe Walsh through his official website, where he shares tour updates and VetsAid charity news. His Facebook page offers glimpses into his live performances and personal reflections, while Instagram is packed with photos of his guitar collection and tour moments. On X, Walsh engages directly with fans, posting about music and veterans’ causes. For Zoo Freaks looking to connect with other fans, the Joe Walsh Fan Club on Facebook is a vibrant community sharing memories and rare photos. Another great spot is uDiscover Music, a fan-friendly site with in-depth articles on Walsh’s career, from his James Gang days to his Eagles legacy. These platforms keep the spirit of Walsh’s music alive for fans Joe Walsh and his Zoo Freaks worldwide.