“Dirty Laundry” is a song by American singer and drummer Don Henley, released in October 1982 as the second single from his debut solo album I Can’t Stand Still. The song became one of Henley’s biggest solo hits and is known for its sharp critique of sensationalism in the media.
“Dirty Laundry” is a rock track with elements of new wave and funk, featuring a catchy beat and prominent synthesizers, along with Henley’s distinctive vocals. The song has a driving rhythm, with a strong bassline and guitar riffs that give it an edgy, energetic feel. The production reflects the early 1980s sound, blending rock with modern electronic influences.
The song’s lyrics offer a scathing critique of the media, particularly television news. Henley addresses how the media often focuses on scandals, gossip, and sensational stories instead of serious journalism. The phrase “dirty laundry” serves as a metaphor for the media airing out scandals and exploiting people’s misfortunes for ratings. The lyrics convey Henley’s frustration with the superficiality and sensationalism of the news industry, making the song both thought-provoking and socially relevant.
“Dirty Laundry” was a major commercial success reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, becoming Henley’s first top 10 solo hit. The song also performed well on rock radio and helped establish Henley as a successful solo artist after his work with the Eagles.
Despite the song’s popularity and heavy airplay, no official music video was ever produced for “Dirty Laundry” when it was released in 1982 but Global News produced a parody video in 1985 (credited to the “News Brothers”, featuring the song.
“Dirty Laundry” remains one of Don Henley’s most recognized solo songs. Its message about media sensationalism continues to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless commentary on the state of journalism and entertainment. The song’s combination of sharp lyrics and infectious rock sound helped cement Henley’s place in the music industry as a solo artist.