Dirty Laundry

Don Henley

About Dirty Laundry

"Dirty Laundry" is a hit song written by Don Henley and Danny Kortchmar, from Henley's Gold-plus debut solo album I Can't Stand Still, released in 1982. The song hit #1 on the Billboard Top Album Tracks chart in October 1982, prior to being issued as a 45. Lyrically, the song describes mass media sensationalism and yellow journalism. Released as the second single from I Can't Stand Still, it spent three weeks at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1983. The single was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America in March of 1983, representing sales of over one million in the United States.  


Year:
2002
5:51
88 

Lyrics currently unavailable…


Don Henley

Donald Hugh "Don" Henley (born July 22, 1947, in Gilmer, Texas) is an American singer, songwriter and drummer, best known as a founding member of the Eagles before launching a successful solo career. Henley was the drummer and lead vocalist for the Eagles from 1971–1980, when the band broke up. Henley sings lead vocals on Eagles hits such as "Witchy Woman", "Desperado", "Best of My Love", "One of These Nights", "Hotel California", "Life in the Fast Lane", and "The Long Run". He and Glenn Frey formed one of the most successful songwriting partnerships in music history. more »

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15 facts about this song

Release Date
"Dirty Laundry" was released by Don Henley in 1982.
Album
The song is from Henley's debut solo album, "I Can't Stand Still", which marked his departure from his band the Eagles.
Genre
"Dirty Laundry" is often characterized as a blend of rock and pop music, with some new wave elements.
Chart Performance
The song made it to number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982, making it one of Henley's most successful solo endeavors.
Lyrics Theme
The lyrics of "Dirty Laundry" sharply criticize the media, particularly news outlets and tabloid journalism.
Influence
"Dirty Laundry" has been covered by numerous artists and is often cited as an influence in songs criticizing the media.
Grammy Nominations
The song was nominated for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance at the 1983 Grammy Awards.
Music Video
The music video for "Dirty Laundry" includes shots of Henley in a newsroom set, further emphasizing the song's commentary on the media industry.
Song Length
"Dirty Laundry" has a length of around 5 minutes and 37 seconds on the album.
Songwriters
The song was co-written by Don Henley and Danny Kortchmar, a frequent collaborator of Henley's.
Notable Musicians
Several notable musicians contributed to the song, including guitarist Steve Lukather from Toto and drummer Jeff Porcaro.
Backing Vocals
The ironically cheerful, group-sung "kick 'em when they're up/kick 'em when they're down" chorus showcased the vocals of industry-renowned backup singers, namely Timothy B. Schmit, formerly of the Eagles.
Live Performances
Henley often played "Dirty Laundry" during live performances, and it became one of his signature songs.
Overall Role
"Dirty Laundry" played a significant role in establishing Don Henley's successful solo career following his time with the Eagles.
Television Appearance
In 1994, Don Henley performed "Dirty Laundry" on the "Vh1 Storytellers" TV show, where he also gave some insights into the song's creation.

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    Dirty Laundry

    2.4M
    21,870     810

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1983

    Billboard #3


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