"Hotel California" has gotta be one of my favorite songs from the 70s by far. I find the whole experience very nostalgic anytime I hear the radio happen to play it. However, one of the defining parts within the song may be its very precise focus on allowing the guitars to be the focus in the song. I find it so difficult to see modern day songs that take such an abrupt turn away from the singer and perform a guitar solo. I guarantee there are modern rock songs that hold that tradition, but top performing songs just negate this practice.
As much as I enjoy the song, I think the Eagles were also leaving a political statement within the lyrics. They understood the kind of change from the 60s into the 70s by saying “So I called up the Captain,' Please bring me my wine' He said, 'We haven't had that spirit here since nineteen sixty nine' “ I’m sure the feel of the U.S. was reflecting some of the external conflicts that were occurring between the U.S. and foreign powers. With the 60s time of “Peace and Love” unraveling and a new generation arising, I’m not surprised that artists such as the Eagles can feel the shift in culture occur so abruptly.
I agree that this song has a very nostalgic feel. I hear it on the radio sometimes. You are right about modern songs not abruptly turning over to a guitar solo. I have never really studied the lyrics to this song so I never caught the political reference, but I think you are right.
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