Which Eagles song begins with the line 'On a dark desert highway'?

The Eagles song that begins with “On a dark desert highway” is “Hotel California.” That opening line introduces one of rock music’s most recognizable songs and immediately establishes its mysterious desert-night setting.

“Hotel California” was written by Don Felder, Don Henley, and Glenn Frey. Felder created the original instrumental demo, drawing on Latin and reggae influences, while Henley and Frey developed the lyrics and overall concept. Henley sings the lead vocal on the released recording.

The song appeared on the Eagles’ 1976 album Hotel California and was issued as a single in 1977. Its lyrics have inspired many interpretations, but Henley described the song broadly as a journey from innocence to experience and a reflection on excess in American culture.

The track is often confused with other major Eagles songs such as “Desperado” or “Take It Easy,” but neither begins with this desert-highway image. The opening belongs specifically to “Hotel California.”