
“Hotel California” by Eagles – Overview & Analysis
Release & Background
Released: 1976 (album: Hotel California)
Writers: Don Felder, Don Henley, Glenn Frey
Genre: Rock with elements of country and Latin influences
Notable for: Its iconic guitar solo, haunting lyrics, and metaphorical depth.
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Themes & Meaning
The song has been widely interpreted, with three dominant readings:
1. Excess & Decadence of the 1970s Los Angeles Lifestyle
“Hotel California” symbolizes materialism and hedonism—luxury with a dark underside.
“You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave” suggests entrapment in a lifestyle of excess.
2. Loss of Innocence & Disillusionment
Represents the journey from idealistic dreams of success to the realization of their costs.
3. Metaphorical Prison
Could symbolize addiction (to fame, drugs, or desires), where indulgence becomes self-destruction.