Video: Phish Deliver Tribute Performance to Joe Walsh at the Sphere
A packed night in Las Vegas took an unexpected turn when Phish paused mid-show to acknowledge someone watching from the crowd. The moment came during their ongoing residency at the Sphere, where the band has been performing a series of dates in 2026.
After finishing a performance of the title track from their 2020 album Sigma Oasis, the group slowed things down. Frontman Trey Anastasio stepped forward to speak directly to the audience, shifting the focus away from the setlist for a brief but meaningful interruption.
A Message Directed at a Rock Icon
Anastasio explained that just before going on stage, the band learned that one of their longtime influences was in attendance. He shared the news with the crowd, revealing that Joe Walsh had come to watch the show.
“So I just wanted to pause and send a message of love,” Anastasio said, prompting a loud reaction from fans. As cheers filled the venue, he added a light remark: “Hi Joe! I didn’t mean to embarrass ya.”
Looking Back at Early Influences
The tone then shifted from surprise to reflection. Anastasio spoke about how Walsh’s music played a role in shaping the band’s early years. He noted that songs connected to Walsh were among the first the members learned while still in school.
“The basis for everything that we do is you,” he said, pointing to the lasting impact of those early influences. The comment highlighted how deeply Walsh’s work had been woven into their musical foundation.
A Live Cover With History Behind It
Following the tribute, the band moved straight into a cover tied to Walsh’s past. They performed “Walk Away,” originally recorded by James Gang in 1971.
The choice of song carried added meaning, as Anastasio had just explained that it was one of the first tracks the band ever learned together decades ago. The performance connected their early days with the present moment on stage.
Reaction From the Honored Guest
After the show, Walsh shared his response online. “Phish played the hell out of my song,” he wrote, adding that he hadn’t expected the tribute. He described the experience as “a serious honor,” while also praising the band.
His reaction closed the loop on a moment that started as a quiet discovery backstage and turned into a highlight of the night.
Residency Continues at Las Vegas Venue
The performance was part of Phish’s extended run at the Sphere, which continues with additional dates scheduled for April 23–25 and April 30–May 2. This marks their second residency at the venue after an earlier series of shows in 2024.
Walsh is also familiar with the location. As a member of Eagles, he recently completed a lengthy residency there, totaling 58 shows—the longest run held at the Sphere so far.
