Joe Walsh Reveals Pete Townshend’s Guitar Secrets

During a 2023 visit to Jimmy Kimmel Live, legendary Eagles guitarist Joe Walsh took a fun trip down memory lane, sharing stories from his early touring days with the James Gang and the lasting impression Pete Townshend of The Who left on him.

Learning the Power of Attitude

Back when the James Gang opened for The Who during their famous Tommy Tour in Europe, Walsh picked up more than just good memories. He explained that Townshend taught him something essential about performing in a three-piece band:

“He taught me how to play guitar in a three-piece band. You have drums and bass, and you. What do you do? And the thing he taught me was to play with an attitude. The attitude is the whole thing.”

That advice became a foundation for Walsh’s unique sound, heard on countless classic rock tracks. According to him, it wasn’t just about the notes — it was about energy and presence.

Walsh couldn’t help but add a little humor to the story. He credited The Who’s wild drummer, Keith Moon, for another type of education:

“Keith Moon, the Who’s drummer, he taught me how to trash hotel rooms.”

A Guitar Gift and Timeless Sound

The respect between Walsh and Townshend went both ways. In 1975, Townshend told Rolling Stone that Walsh was “a fluid and intelligent player.” And in the early ‘70s, Walsh gave Townshend a 1959 Gretsch 6120 and a Fender Bassman amp — a combo that helped shape the signature tone heard on Who’s Next and Quadrophenia.

Their relationship emphasizes the importance of mentorship and sincere friendship in the music industry, even beyond the amps and guitars. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, simply observing someone else do their thing with attitude can teach us the most valuable lessons.

Want to hear it straight from Joe? Check out his full chat with Jimmy Kimmel below: