About the song
“Hotel California” is a classic rock song by the American band Eagles, first released on February 22, 1977, as the second single from their album of the same name. Written by Don Felder, Don Henley, and Glenn Frey, the song features Henley on lead vocals and is famous for its extended guitar solo, performed by Felder and Joe Walsh. This guitar solo, which lasts over two minutes, is considered one of the greatest of all time and has earned the song a prominent place in rock music history.
The song’s lyrics have intrigued listeners since its release. The Eagles have described “Hotel California” as a reflection on the luxurious and often deceptive lifestyle in Los Angeles. In their 2013 documentary, Don Henley described the song as a journey from innocence to experience, capturing the darker side of the American dream.
“Hotel California” achieved major commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1978. The song’s impact extends beyond its original release, influencing numerous artists and becoming a staple of the Eagles’ live performances. It is also noted for its distinctive, haunting guitar riff and intricate musical arrangement.
The song has been covered by many artists and remains a cultural touchstone, often referenced in discussions about American culture and excess. Its enigmatic lyrics and memorable melody continue to captivate listeners, making “Hotel California” a timeless piece of rock music that resonates across generations.
Video
Lyrics
On a dark desert highway, cool wind in my hair
Warm smell of colitas rising up through the air
Up ahead in the distance, I saw a shimmering light
My head grew heavy and my sight grew dim, I had to stop for the night
There she stood in the doorway, I heard the mission bell
And I was thinkin’ to myself, “This could be heaven or this could be hell”
Then she lit up a candle and she showed me the way
There were voices down the corridor, I thought I heard them say
“Welcome to the Hotel California
Such a lovely place (such a lovely place)
Such a lovely face
Plenty of room at the Hotel California
Any time of year (any time of year)
You can find it here”
Her mind is Tiffany-twisted, she got the Mercedes-Benz, uh
She got a lot of pretty, pretty boys that she calls friends
How they dance in the courtyard, sweet summer sweat
Some dance to remember, some dance to forget
So I called up the Captain, “Please bring me my wine”
He said, “We haven’t had that spirit here since 1969”
And still, those voices are calling from far away
Wake you up in the middle of the night just to hear them say
“Welcome to the Hotel California
Such a lovely place (such a lovely place)
Such a lovely face
They’re livin’ it up at the Hotel California
What a nice surprise (what a nice surprise)
Bring your alibis”
Mirrors on the ceiling, the pink champagne on ice
And she said, “We are all just prisoners here of our own device”
And in the master’s chambers, they gathered for the feast
They stab it with their steely knives, but they just can’t kill the beast
Last thing I remember, I was running for the door
I had to find the passage back to the place I was before
“Relax, ” said the night man, “We are programmed to receive
You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave”