In The City – The Eagles

Released in 1979, In the City captures the restless pulse of urban life through the Eagles’ signature blend of rock polish and introspective lyricism. The song was written by Joe Walsh and originally appeared in the soundtrack to The Warriors before being re-recorded by the band for their final studio album of the era.

The Eagles’ version appears on The Long Run (1979), an album that marked both a commercial high point and the beginning of the band’s internal unraveling. Compared to the album’s smoother, radio-friendly hits, In the City leans grittier, driven by Walsh’s edgy guitar work and lyrics that reflect isolation, ambition, and survival in a crowded world.

As a single, In the City reached No. 20 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning solid airplay and becoming a fan favorite rather than a defining chart-topper. Over time, it has gained a reputation as an underrated Eagles track – one that trades West Coast ease for late-night street realism.

Today, In the City stands as a snapshot of the Eagles at a turning point: seasoned, successful, and increasingly aware of the costs of life in the fast lane.