About the Song
"Smuggler's Blues" is a song written by Glenn Frey and Jack Tempchin, and performed by Frey. It was the third and final single from Frey's second studio album, The Allnighter (1984). It followed "Sexy Girl" and "The Allnighter"; of the three, it charted highest. Its music video won Frey an MTV Video Music Award in 1985. The song was played with the Eagles on the Hell Freezes Over Tour with Timothy B. Schmit on bass guitar and harmonies, Don Henley on drums, Joe Walsh on rhythm guitar and Don Felder on rhythm and lead guitar.
Meaning Behind the Lyrics
Many listeners interpret "Smuggler's Blues" as a commentary on the dark and perilous world of drug trafficking. The song examines the moral dilemmas and the high stakes involved in this lifestyle, presenting a gritty narrative that highlights the seductive allure and inevitable consequences of illegal ventures. It can be seen as a reflection on how ambition and desperation can lead individuals down dangerous paths, ultimately questioning the cost of living outside the law. The track's rhythmic intensity and storytelling engage listeners, drawing them into the complex emotions surrounding the pursuit of fortune at any price.
Did You Know?
- He was a founding member of the rock band Eagles, for whom he was the co-lead singer and frontman, roles he came to share with fellow member Don Henley, with whom he wrote most of Eagles' material.
- Frey played guitar and keyboards as well as singing lead vocals on songs such as "Take It Easy", "Peaceful Easy Feeling", "Tequila Sunrise", "Already Gone", "James Dean", "Lyin' Eyes", "New Kid in Town", and "Heartache Tonight".
Music Details
These details come from the iTunes song listing used for the artwork and metadata match.
- Album/collection: The Allnighter
- Genre: Pop
- iTunes release date: June 1, 1984
- Track runtime: 4:20
Video Snapshot
- Video title: Glenn Frey – Smuggler's Blues
- YouTube channel: GlennFreyVEVO
Quick Facts
- Artist: Glenn Frey
- Song: Smuggler's Blues
- Album/collection: The Allnighter
- Genre: Pop
- Reference page: Smuggler's Blues
