Jun 20, 2025
Hotel California – A Moody Classic for Advanced Ukulele Players
Why this epic from the Eagles works beautifully on uke — and how pairing it with a cedar-and-rosewood ukulele brings out its haunting tone and guitar-like depth
Released in 1976, Hotel California is one of the most iconic rock songs ever recorded. Its mysterious lyrics, unforgettable intro, and dual guitar solo earned it a place in music history — and, somewhat unexpectedly, in advanced ukulele circles.
This isn’t your typical three-chord strum. But for intermediate and advanced players, Hotel California is a fantastic challenge — especially when played on a solid cedar and rosewood ukulele, which can mimic some of the warm, ringing tone of the original guitars.
🌴 Behind the Lyrics, Beyond the Hotel
While many have speculated about the song’s meaning — from commentary on California excess to music industry burnout — the band says it’s about illusion and disillusionment. That feeling of being trapped in a beautiful place with no escape.
Which makes it all the more intriguing when reinterpreted on a humble uke.
“You can check out any time you like…” — and yes, you can play this on ukulele.
🎶 Why It Works on a High-Quality Ukulele
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The intro riff is playable on ukulele with fingerpicking
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Chord progression (Bm, F#, A, E, G, D, Em, F#) pushes your skills
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Sounds amazing on a uke with rich midrange and strong sustain
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Great opportunity to practice arrangement, dynamics, and soloing
🎸 Looking for an instrument that can keep up? Explore our Ohana Ukuleles Collection — including solid cedar tops and rosewood back-and-sides that offer full-bodied tone and clarity.
🎯 Playing Tip: Break It Down, Section by Section
Start with the intro riff — simplified if needed — and play slowly with clean finger placement. Once you're comfortable, work through the chord changes one line at a time. A baritone uke works beautifully here too, but a concert or tenor with cedar and rosewood tonewoods gives surprising warmth and sustain.
Add a looper or effects pedal if you’re going electric — and you’ve got a full arrangement ready for performance.
🔗 Sources
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Ultimate Guitar – Ukulele Tab
