The Ultimate Guide to The Eagles’ "Hotel California": Masterpiece and Myth

You hear a low, synthesized bass drum (a rarity for the Eagles). Simultaneously, a 12-string acoustic guitar plays the arpeggio. In 320kbps, you hear the metal of the strings. In lower quality, you hear mush.

"Hotel California" is widely regarded as a classic. Critics praise its songwriting, atmosphere, and musicianship. Over decades it has appeared on numerous "best of" lists and remains a staple on classic rock radio and streaming playlists. Its cultural impact extends to covers, parodies, and references in film and television. The song’s ambiguous imagery has spawned many myths and misinterpretations, which the band has addressed in interviews.