Ordinary Average Guy (Live 1991)

Zoo Freaks, get ready for some cool vibes as we spin "Ordinary Average Guy (Live 1991)" by Joe Walsh here at THE ZOO! This track, from his ninth solo album released in 1991, is a tongue-in-cheek reflection on escaping the glitz of rock stardom for a simpler life. Walsh wrote it during a mid-life crisis, poking fun at his own fame with lyrics about mowing the lawn, driving a Dodge, and bowling with the guys. It’s a playful nod to his earlier hit "Life’s Been Good," which celebrated rock star excess, but here he flips the script to embrace the everyday. The song hit #3 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks, proving Walsh’s knack for blending humor with catchy riffs.

One juicy tidbit about the song comes from its liner notes, where Walsh lists 39 “Ordinary Average Guys,” including himself, Ringo Starr, and even Frank Zappa. Fans on sites like PowerPop have speculated about this eclectic crew, wondering how Zappa, known for his avant-garde genius, made the “average” cut—likely a classic Walsh jest. In a 2016 Rolling Stone interview, Walsh shared that the song reflects his reality: “We’re really cool for about an hour and a half onstage. And the rest of the day we’re taking out garbage and picking up dog crap and washing cars like everybody else.” The live 1991 version captures his raw energy, with fans on Reddit’s ClassicRock praising its groove and Walsh’s everyman charm.

Walsh’s journey to rock legend status started in Wichita, Kansas, where he was born on November 20, 1947. Raised by a classically trained pianist mother, he soaked up melodies early on. By the mid-1960s, he was studying at Kent State University but ditched graduation to chase music. He cut his teeth with local Ohio bands like The Measles, even landing tracks on The Ohio Express’ 1967 album. His big break came with the James Gang, where his guitar chops on hits like "Funk #49" caught the ear of folks like The Who’s Pete Townshend. Walsh’s generosity also shaped rock history—he gifted Jimmy Page a 1959 Gibson Les Paul, which became a cornerstone of Led Zeppelin’s sound. After leaving the James Gang in 1972, he formed Barnstorm with drummer Joe Vitale, kicking off a solo career that later soared with The Eagles.

Stay connected with Joe Walsh’s world through his official website, where you can find tour dates and merch. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates and his signature humor. Fans gather at spots like the Joe Walsh Fan Club on Facebook, sharing memories and rare clips. Zoo Freaks, keep rocking with us as we celebrate this ordinary average guy with an extraordinary legacy!