On June 22, 2016, a musical moment that fans of rock, country, and blues will never forget took place at the DTE Energy Music Theatre in Michigan. Legendary guitarist Joe Walsh, famous for his work with the Eagles and as a solo artist, was joined on stage by two iconic musicians—country sensation Keith Urban and blues-rock virtuoso Laith Al-Saadi—for an unforgettable rendition of his classic hit, Rocky Mountain Way.
A Surprising Trio on Stage
The collaboration was part of Joe Walsh’s One Hell of a Night tour, which featured some electrifying performances throughout the year. But this particular night took a surprise twist when Keith Urban, who was in town for a performance the following night, made an unexpected appearance. Along with Urban, Laith Al-Saadi—known for his gritty blues vocals—joined Walsh on stage, creating a perfect blend of musical styles that transcended genres.
The trio was also supported by Waddy Wachtel, a seasoned guitarist who was part of Walsh’s touring band. Together, they delivered a performance that seamlessly mixed rock, blues, and country, showing off each artist’s unique strengths. Walsh’s signature talk-box guitar effects, Urban’s soulful country roots, and Al-Saadi’s powerful blues vocals fused to produce a sound that was pure musical magic.
The Reunion of Joe Walsh and Laith Al-Saadi
This performance was not the first time Walsh and Al-Saadi had shared the stage. Earlier in the year, the two had teamed up during the finale of The Voice Season 10, where Al-Saadi was a finalist. The pair performed Rocky Mountain Way, and the chemistry between the musicians was undeniable. Their successful collaboration on The Voice led to more live performances together, including this unforgettable night in Michigan.
The Power of Impromptu Music
What made this particular rendition of Rocky Mountain Way so special was the spontaneous nature of the performance. The trio had little to no prior rehearsal, yet they flawlessly brought the song to life in a way that resonated deeply with the crowd. The energy on stage was electric, and the emotional connection between the musicians and the audience was undeniable.
Walsh, known for his laid-back style, took a moment during the performance to acknowledge the magic of the collaboration. Keith Urban, always the showman, complemented Walsh’s iconic guitar work with his smooth country stylings, while Al-Saadi’s powerful voice brought a raw, emotional depth to the performance.
A Moment to Remember
This musical convergence of rock, country, and blues created an unforgettable experience that will live on in the hearts of the fans who witnessed it. The magic of live music, the surprise of unannounced collaborations, and the raw passion of these legendary musicians made this performance one of the highlights of Walsh’s tour.
To experience the magic of that night, you can watch the video of the performance below:
