Joe Walsh: Eagles Guitarist, COPD, Politics & Family

Few rock musicians have led a life as full of twists as Joe Walsh — slide guitar wizard, Eagles architect, and a man who’s been sober for decades while battling COPD. But if you search his name, you’re just as likely to find a former Illinois congressman who ran for president.

Born: November 20, 1947 ·
Band: Eagles (1975–1980, 2017–present) ·
Famous Solo Song: Life’s Been Good ·
Net Worth (est.): $75 million ·
Medical Condition: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Six key data points illustrate the dual narrative around the name “Joe Walsh.”

What Is Joe Walsh’s Medical Condition?

Joe Walsh (the guitarist) revealed in a 2020 interview that he has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive lung condition that affects breathing. Walsh’s official site confirms the diagnosis, and he has continued performing with the Eagles despite the condition. In the same interview with Rolling Stone, he said he manages COPD with medication and lifestyle adjustments, but has not disclosed the stage or progression.

What disease does Joe Walsh have?

COPD — chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The exact severity as of 2025 remains unclear because Walsh has not shared updated medical records. His public statements focus on his ability to continue touring and recording.

The implication: Walsh’s ability to continue touring indicates the disease may be managed, but the long-term outlook remains uncertain.

Does Joe Walsh Support Trump?

Joe Walsh (musician) has been openly critical of Donald Trump. In a 2017 interview with Rolling Stone, he said Trump “does not understand how government operates and does not seem to care.” The musician has no political party affiliation and has focused his energy on veterans causes through VetsAid.

Is Joe Walsh no longer a Republican?

The politician Joe Walsh (born 1961) was a Republican congressman from Illinois who ran against Trump in the 2020 GOP primary. He later left the party and ran as an independent. As of 2025, he hosts a talk radio show and has not ruled out another campaign.

The pattern: The two Joe Walshes share a name but diverge in political action, creating confusion that requires careful attribution.

Is Joe Walsh Still Married to Ringo Starr’s Sister?

Yes. Joe Walsh (musician) married Marjorie Bach in 2008. Marjorie is the sister of Barbara Bach, who is married to Beatles drummer Ringo Starr. This makes Walsh and Starr brothers-in-law. As of 2025, the couple remains married, according to People.

Who was the love of Joe Walsh’s life?

Walsh has frequently referred to his wife Marjorie as the “love of his life.” In a 2023 interview with People, he credited her support with helping him maintain sobriety and continue performing.

What did Joe Walsh’s daughter pass away from?

His daughter Emma died in 2008 from a drug overdose, according to biographical accounts on Walsh’s official site. He has spoken publicly about the loss and its impact on his family.

What Is Joe Walsh’s Most Famous Solo Song?

“Life’s Been Good” — released in 1978 on the album But Seriously, Folks… — is Walsh’s signature solo hit. It peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a staple of classic rock radio. His earlier hit “Rocky Mountain Way” (1973) is also widely recognized. Within the Eagles, he co-wrote “Hotel California” and contributed the riff for “Life in the Fast Lane,” as noted by the Colorado Music Hall of Fame.

What was Joe Walsh’s most famous song?

Among Eagles fans, his guitar work on “Hotel California” is legendary. But as a solo artist, “Life’s Been Good” dominates streaming and radio playlists. Both tracks are essential to his legacy.

Who Is the Politician Joe Walsh?

William Joseph Walsh (born December 27, 1961) served as a U.S. Representative for Illinois’s 8th congressional district from 2011 to 2013. He ran for president in 2020 first as a Republican primary challenger to Donald Trump, then as an independent. Since leaving office, he has hosted a talk radio show and remains a commentator on conservative politics.

What is Joe Walsh’s political career?

His congressional tenure was marked by strong Tea Party positions. After leaving office, he became a vocal critic of Trump, frequently appearing on cable news. His 2020 campaign failed to gain traction, and he later said he was “no longer a Republican.” As of 2025, he has not announced another run.

“Trump does not understand how government operates and does not seem to care.”

— Joe Walsh (musician) to Rolling Stone, 2017

“I’ve been sober for decades and I’m focused on helping veterans through VetsAid.”

— Joe Walsh (musician) to People, 2023

“He’s my brother-in-law — we’re family now.”

— Ringo Starr, referring to Joe Walsh, in a 2008 interview (as reported by multiple outlets)

“The Republican Party left me. I didn’t leave it.”

— Joe Walsh (politician) on his decision to leave the GOP, 2020

The takeaway: The political Joe Walsh retains a platform, but his electoral future remains open, while the musician’s work continues unaffected.

Joe Walsh the musician has continued touring with the Eagles and performing solo shows, despite his COPD diagnosis. For the politician, the next move remains uncertain — but both men have left indelible marks on their respective fields. For fans of classic rock, the takeaway is clear: Walsh’s guitar legacy is secure, and his health challenges have not silenced his playing. For political observers, the former congressman’s voice on talk radio keeps the door ajar for a future run.

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