The Eagles are one of those bands everyone seems to take great delight in disliking, even though they’ve earned themselves a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and are beloved by millions. Yet their music seems to evoke strong dislike from “hip” people and critics alike.
Over the past several seasons, the Eagles have endured more than their share of home-stretch disasters – but none has cut deeper than this loss.
History
As rock music was popularized throughout the 60s and 70s, bands often disbanded after just a short time together. This documentary follows The Eagles through their evolution and success over decades of success; exploring what made them distinct.
Henley and Frey’s disparate backgrounds created an irresistibly compelling synthesis, marrying country and western with bar-rock anthems to form one powerful group that ruled the ’70s. Walsh joined up soon thereafter, becoming part of a formidable trio.
After The Eagles disbanded in 1980, its members pursued successful solo careers and later reunited to record Hell Freezes Over as a reunion album in 1994. Furthermore, Long Road Out of Eden was released in 2007 and they continued touring steadily; thus closing this film by reflecting upon their actions and influences.
Members
The Eagles were established in 1971 by singer-guitarist Glenn Frey, drummer Don Henley, guitarist Bernie Leadon, and bassist Randy Meisner. Signed to producer Glyn Johns, their self-titled debut album brought rock, country and folk elements into rock with hits like Take It Easy and Witchy Woman; then their 1973 follow up Desperado catapulted them further into mainstream consciousness with hit singles such as One of These Nights and Desperado itself.
As Henley and Frey began successful solo careers in the late ’70s, their band began to fracture. One significant source of contention was Hotel California (1976), in which Leadon was replaced with Henley as singer; Meisner quit and Timothy B Schmit was hired instead. Later that same year Henley, Frey and Schmit reunited to produce 1979’s The Long Run which took 18 months to record.
Songs
Since 1971, The Eagles have become one of the most successful bands ever. Boasting chart-topping singles and six Grammy awards to their name, as well as being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and selling over 200 million albums worldwide; The band truly offers something for everyone; here are some of their greatest songs.
This song from Eagles is a powerful anthem of perseverance, featuring memorable melodies, vibrant instrumentals, and skillful harmonies – everything necessary for making an excellent Eagles song! A fan-favorite of their live performances as well.
The band took a different approach with this song, creating something more in line with classic pop than country rock or ballad music. Featuring memorable melodies and intricate guitar work as well as Don Henley’s soulful vocals. Additionally, this was Timothy B Schmit’s first track after joining as bassist/lead singer after replacing Randy Meisner in 1977.
Tours
After years of inactivity, The Eagles returned to action following their reunion in 1994 and have been touring ever since. Their latest tour, known as “The Long Goodbye,” marks its final leg and features founding members Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B Schmit along with founding guitarist Glen Frey’s son Deacon and country music superstar Vince Gill.
The band opened their new run at Sphere with an energetic show that took advantage of the wraparound screen to surround them with stunning scenic backdrops, yet provided an audience member-pleasing respite during “Lyin’ Eyes,” when an avalanche of lyrics descended horizontally across the dome.
Henley kicked off the second act with an incredible rendition of “Life in the Fast Lane,” closing out their main set along with their road anthem “Hotel California.” Though their tour will extend well into 2025, there was never an impression that its end was near during this concert.