The Cynical Glare of the Evening News: Unmasking the Sensationalism of “Dirty Laundry” by Don Henley
Ah, Don Henley. A name that resonates with the sound of a generation, a voice that often spoke with a poet’s heart and a keen observer’s eye. But with “Dirty Laundry,” released in the autumn of 1982, Henley traded the wistful reflections of his earlier work, like those with the Eagles, for a sharp, almost sardonic look at the burgeoning culture of sensationalist news. This track, which swiftly climbed the Billboard charts, peaking at an impressive number three, wasn’t just a catchy tune with a driving beat; it was a biting commentary on the “if it bleeds, it leads” mentality that was becoming increasingly prevalent in television news.
The genesis of “Dirty Laundry” came from Henley’s own observations of the media landscape. He was reportedly struck by the way news outlets seemed to prioritize dramatic and often lurid stories over more substantive reporting. This wasn’t a new phenomenon, of course, but the rise of 24-hour news cycles and the intense competition for viewers were amplifying this tendency. Henley, along with his songwriting partners Danny Kortchmar and Jai Winding, channeled this frustration and concern into a song that was both commercially successful and surprisingly insightful. Kortchmar’s signature guitar riff, instantly recognizable, provided the perfect edgy backdrop for Henley’s world-weary vocals.
Lyrically, “Dirty Laundry” pulls no punches. It paints a vivid picture of news anchors and reporters who seem more interested in ratings and sensationalism than in truth or empathy. Lines like “We got the airwaves overloadin’ with bad news is good for sellin'” and “Kick ’em when they’re up, kick ’em when they’re down” are delivered with a cynical sneer, highlighting the exploitative nature of this kind of journalism. The song doesn’t just criticize the media personalities; it also implicates the audience, suggesting a morbid fascination with scandal and tragedy. “People love it, people crave it,” Henley sings, acknowledging the complex and perhaps uncomfortable relationship between the purveyor and the consumer of sensational news.
Beyond its immediate critique of the media, “Dirty Laundry” touches upon broader themes of ethics, responsibility, and the erosion of genuine human connection in a world increasingly dominated by the spectacle. It makes you wonder about the consequences of constantly being bombarded with negativity and the potential for such a diet to desensitize us to real suffering. In a pre-internet age, the song served as a potent warning about the power of television and its potential to shape public perception, sometimes at the expense of truth and decency.
The track was a standout on Henley’s debut solo album, “I Can’t Stand Still,” an album that established him as a formidable solo artist beyond his iconic role in the Eagles. While the album featured other notable songs, “Dirty Laundry” with its sharp social commentary and infectious energy, became an instant classic. It remains a relevant and thought-provoking piece today, perhaps even more so in an era of instant news, social media frenzies, and the constant battle for attention. Listening to it now evokes a sense of both nostalgia for the sound of the early 80s and a lingering unease about the issues it so astutely addressed. It’s a reminder that the allure of sensationalism and the responsibility of the media are enduring concerns that continue to shape our world.