Why is Winslow, Arizona in the Eagles Song 'Take It Easy'?

In 1971, when Take It Easy was written by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey, hitchhiking was a popular form of transportation for teenagers and young adults. The song is noted for its nostalgic and reflective tone, capturing a time in American history when personal vehicles were not as ubiquitous as they are today. The lyrics include the iconic line: "I was standing on the corner in Winslow, Arizona," a reference that has become synonymous with the song itself and has drawn many curious tourists to this small town.

Background of the Songwriters

Before the co-writing and nod to Winslow Arizona, Jackson Browne was working in Greenwich Village, New York, between 1967 and 1968. This period in New York was marked by vibrant cultural and artistic scenes, including the influence of the folk and rock music movements. Following this, Browne moved to Los Angeles. If a person was to hitchhike from New York to LA, they would inevitably pass through a small town called Winslow, Arizona, where Browne and Frey may have, at least in their imagination, encountered various challenges and experiences that shaped their songwriting.

Browne’s Accidental Visit to Winslow

Interestingly, Jackson Browne's visit to Winslow was more than just a fictional concept to set the scene for the song. In reality, Browne’s car broke down in the small Arizona town, which provided him with a real-life encounter that influenced his songwriting. This firsthand insight into the simplicity and charm of Winslow became a crucial component of the song's ambiance and storytelling.

Winslow, Arizona: A Tourist Destination

The small town of Winslow has since become a tourist attraction. The corner mentioned in the song has been transformed into a significant landmark, drawing enthusiasts and music lovers from around the world. Local businesses have capitalized on the newfound fame, offering merchandise related to the song and the town's connection to the Eagles. Even the intersection where the song's lyrics take place is now a tribute to the cultural significance the town holds for music enthusiasts.

Impact on Popular Culture

Take It Easy, the Eagles song, has had a lasting impact on popular culture beyond just its mention of Winslow, Arizona. The song's enduring appeal lies in its combination of poetic lyrics, catchy melody, and the sense of Americana it evokes. Jackson Browne's personal history with the town and his heartfelt depiction of losing one's car in the desert has resonated with listeners for decades.

Moreover, the town of Winslow itself has benefited from this recognition. Local economies have seen a boost from increased tourism, and the town may now be better known outside its geographical region than it was before the hymn.

Conclusion

Winslow, Arizona, is a small town that has made a significant impact in the world of music, primarily due to its mention in the Eagles song, "Take It Easy." Whether through real life or literary imagination, Jackson Browne’s connection to Winslow has transformed the town into a vibrant spot for tourists and musicians alike. Fans can now visit the very corner that inspired this iconic line, making the song and the town inseparable in the collective imagination.

Keywords: Winslow Arizona, Eagles Song, Take It Easy