Legendary Eagles guitarist Joe Walsh and acclaimed songwriter Jimmy Webb delighted an audience in Wichita, Kansas with a heartfelt rendition of Webb’s iconic song “Wichita Lineman” during Walsh’s 2025 VetsAid benefit concert on Saturday, November 14. This surprise performance captivated fans, many of whom praised Walsh for his longstanding commitment to supporting U.S. veterans.
Webb shared a video from the event on his Facebook page, expressing his gratitude and admiration for Walsh’s efforts, stating, “It was an honor to make a surprise visit to Wichita last night for Joe Walsh’s VetsAid benefit. God Bless Joe for all he does to help out the vets.” The performance resonated deeply with attendees as it marked a significant return for Walsh, a native of Wichita.
This year’s VetsAid, which was the first held in Wichita, symbolized a heartfelt homecoming for Walsh. The event gathered an impressive lineup of artists, including Walsh’s fellow Eagles member Vince Gill, Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks, and Nathaniel Rateliff. Walsh reflected on the significance of returning to his roots, noting, “It’s been a long-term goal of mine since we began VetsAid nearly 10 years ago to bring it all home to my native Wichita to serve Kansan veterans and their families. It’s where my parents were both born and are buried, where I was born and where I will always feel a deep connection and sense of heritage and responsibility.”
Walsh, a Gold Star son, founded VetsAid in 2017 to raise funds for veterans’ services organizations. Over the years, the benefit concerts have raised more than $4 million, with proceeds from this year’s concert aimed directly at helping veterans in Kansas.
“Wichita Lineman,” originally composed by Webb in 1968, followed his earlier success with “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” which had been a hit for Glen Campbell in 1967. The song was inspired by Webb’s reflections while driving through Oklahoma, observing a lineman working atop a pole. Both Campbell and the song’s producer, Al De Lory, were profoundly affected by its poignant portrayal of loneliness, which resonated with Campbell, who experienced homesickness when he first heard it.
The song’s signature guitar solo was performed by Campbell on a borrowed Danelectro bass guitar, brilliantly crafted by Carol Kaye, who also performed on the track and contributed to its unforgettable melody. Kaye was recently honored with an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, although she chose not to attend, believing the accolade contradicted her identity as a session musician.
This memorable evening not only celebrated a timeless masterpiece but also reinforced the importance of community and support for veterans. As Walsh continues to bridge his musical legacy with philanthropic efforts, his commitment to honoring and helping those who served remains unwavering.