Renowned guitarist Joe Walsh, known for his work with the Eagles, recently graced the stage at Ōtātara Pā in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, for an intimate performance. The special event took place on Saturday, bringing together Walsh and a group of music students.
Walsh, who has a deep connection to Ōtātara Pā, shared his personal story of transformation during the performance. It was at this site in 1989 that he experienced a profound epiphany that led him to give up alcohol and drugs.
“What happened to me was kind of a spiritual awakening,” Walsh told the crowd. “The spirit of this place talked to me and told me who I had become was not me.”
Walsh emphasized the transformative power of the experience, which led him to dedicate his life to helping others overcome addiction and refocus on meaningful pursuits. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to return to Ōtātara Pā and share his journey.
The performance featured a collaboration between Walsh and local music students Frankie Stevens, Brannigan Kaa, and Pereri King. Together, they performed a cover of “Hotel California” before Walsh rounded off the evening with a solo piano rendition of “Desperado.”
Walsh’s return to Ōtātara Pā was a poignant moment, marking both a personal pilgrimage and a celebration of music and community. It reinforced the enduring impact of the site on Walsh’s life and highlighted the transformative power of music.
