The Eagles, synonymous with California rock and country-infused melodies, soared from the late 1960s music scene to become one of the best-selling music acts of all time. Emerging from Linda Ronstadt’s backing band, this supergroup, featuring Glenn Frey and Don Henley, alongside Bernie Leadon and Randy Meisner, was destined for greatness. Their collaborations with luminaries like Jackson Browne and JD Souther only cemented their path to becoming music icons. With over 150 million records sold globally and Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975) constantly vying for the title of best-selling album ever, the Eagles’ impact is undeniable. Beyond sales, their accolades include six Grammy Awards, inductions into the Rock & Roll and Vocal Group Halls of Fame, and a Kennedy Center Honor. Even after Glenn Frey’s passing in 2016 and more recently, the loss of Randy Meisner in 2023, the band’s music endures, and their legacy continues with tours like “The Long Goodbye Tour,” featuring Deacon Frey and Vince Gill.
To truly appreciate their monumental career, we delve into the heart of their artistry: their music. Here is an essential Eagles Songs List, exploring 15 of their greatest songs that have defined generations.
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Eagles band members Don Henley, Joe Walsh, and Vince Gill performing on stage at a concert, highlighting their enduring legacy in rock music[/center]
1. “Doolin-Dalton” (Desperado, 1973)
Opening their concept album Desperado, “Doolin-Dalton” immediately sets a cinematic tone. Inspired by the infamous Doolin-Dalton gang of the late 19th century, this track is more than just a song; it’s an overture to a Wild West narrative. The song’s haunting melody and evocative lyrics introduce themes of outlaw life and desperation that permeate the entire album. Its significance is underscored by its reprises later in the album, solidifying its central role in the Desperado concept. While the complete concept might be debated, the individual brilliance of “Doolin-Dalton” is unquestionable, showcasing the Eagles’ ability to craft immersive musical storytelling.
2. “Peaceful Easy Feeling” (Eagles, 1972)
A quintessential Eagles track, “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” penned by Jack Tempchin, perfectly encapsulates the band’s early laid-back California sound. The song’s breezy melody, enriched by the Eagles’ signature rich harmonies, creates an instantly comforting and familiar atmosphere. It’s a prime example of their knack for crafting songs with organic lushness, making it incredibly easy to sing along from the very first verse. This tune became an instant classic, embodying the easygoing spirit of the early 70s and solidifying the Eagles’ reputation for feel-good anthems.
3. “Seven Bridges Road” (Eagles Live, 1980)
“Seven Bridges Road,” written by Steve Young, truly shines in its live rendition on Eagles Live. This track is a masterclass in vocal harmony. Performed primarily a cappella, it showcases the Eagles’ breathtaking vocal precision and smoothness. The arrangement highlights the sheer vocal talent within the band, turning a relatively simple song into a stunning display of musical artistry. It’s a testament to their live performance prowess and their ability to captivate audiences with just their voices.
4. “Tequila Sunrise” (Desperado, 1973)
One of the initial songwriting collaborations between Don Henley and Glenn Frey, “Tequila Sunrise” paints vivid imagery with its lyrics and mellow melody. While titled “Sunrise,” the song’s mood evokes a more relaxed, dusky atmosphere, perfect for reflecting on the day’s end. It’s a scene-setter in the truest sense, establishing a mood and a feeling as much as telling a story. This song exemplifies the Eagles’ ability to blend country and rock elements into a smooth, evocative soundscape, becoming another early signature hit.
5. “Heartache Tonight” (The Long Run, 1979)
“Heartache Tonight,” a Grammy-winning chart-topper from The Long Run, brings a more upbeat, rock-infused energy to the Eagles’ catalog. Co-written with Bob Seger, who also contributed uncredited backing vocals, the song maintains the band’s hallmark harmonies but injects a dose of rock and roll swagger. Joe Walsh’s hot slide guitar work further elevates the track, making it a standout single that perfectly balances their signature sound with a more driving, energetic rhythm.
6. “How Long” (Long Road Out of Eden, 2007)
From their later album Long Road Out of Eden, “How Long,” penned by JD Souther, possesses a remarkable vintage feel. Interestingly, the Eagles had performed this anti-war song live in the 1970s, only to rediscover and record it decades later. The result is seamless; it sounds as if no time has passed. This track demonstrates the timeless quality of their music and their ability to revisit and revitalize songs from their past, proving their enduring relevance in the modern music landscape.
7. “Already Gone” (On the Border, 1974)
“Already Gone,” another Jack Tempchin composition, is transformed by the Eagles into a high-energy anthem. This rendition provides a platform for Glenn Frey and new band member Don Felder to unleash their guitar prowess. The song is a spirited, guitar-driven rocker that showcases the band’s ability to shift gears from mellow harmonies to full-throttle rock energy. It became a popular track for its raw energy and guitar interplay, marking a slightly harder edge in their evolving sound.
8. “Best of My Love” (On the Border, 1974)
A departure from their rockier side, “Best of My Love” is a Henley-sung ballad that earned the Eagles their first No. 1 Hot 100 single. With its sweet, heartfelt melody, the song has captivated listeners for nearly half a century. It’s a testament to their versatility, proving they could achieve chart-topping success with both their rock anthems and their tender ballads. “Best of My Love” remains a beloved classic, showcasing their mastery of softer, emotionally resonant songwriting.
9. “Lyin’ Eyes” (One of These Nights, 1975)
“Lyin’ Eyes” emerged from a real-life observation at Dan Tana’s in Los Angeles. Glenn Frey and Don Henley crafted a narrative about infidelity, set to a majestic ballad arrangement. The song’s beauty lies in its rich chorus harmonies, which create a paradoxical effect, making the somewhat accusatory lyrics sound almost like a gentle acknowledgment. This track exemplifies their storytelling ability, turning a casual observation into a compelling and emotionally complex song, earning them another significant hit.
10. “I Can’t Tell You Why” (The Long Run, 1979)
Timothy B. Schmit’s standout moment, “I Can’t Tell You Why,” is a soulful and atmospheric slow jam. Schmit’s pure high tenor vocals are a highlight, creating a captivating tension that’s beautifully resolved by what many consider the Eagles’ most transportive guitar solo – possibly even surpassing “Hotel California” in emotional depth for some listeners. This song showcases a different facet of the Eagles, delving into soulful territory and highlighting the individual talents within the group.
11. “Take It to the Limit” (One of These Nights, 1975)
“Take It to the Limit” is Randy Meisner’s vocal showcase. This powerful ballad is a paean to perseverance, driven by Meisner’s breathtaking falsetto. Co-written by Meisner with Henley and Frey, the song stands strong even beyond its impressive vocal performance. It’s a testament to Meisner’s contribution to the band and a reminder of the vocal and songwriting depth within the Eagles, even beyond the Henley-Frey partnership.
12. “Life in the Fast Lane” (Hotel California, 1976)
Without question, “Life in the Fast Lane” is the Eagles’ ultimate rock anthem. It’s the pinnacle of the Joe Walsh-Don Felder guitar tandem, save for one other song (which we’ll get to). This track is pure adrenaline, capturing the excesses and thrills of a high-speed lifestyle. Its driving rhythm and blistering guitar work make it an enduring concert favorite and a definitive example of the Eagles at their rock and roll best.
13. “Take It Easy” (Eagles, 1972)
The song that started it all, “Take It Easy,” a collaboration between Glenn Frey and Jackson Browne, put Winslow, Arizona, on the map. It’s an anthem of carefree living, even amidst “a world of trouble.” The song’s easygoing vibe and catchy melody made it an instant hit and a defining track of their early sound. “Take It Easy” is not just a song; it’s an invitation to relax and enjoy life’s simple pleasures, establishing the Eagles as purveyors of sunny, relatable rock.
14. “Desperado” (Desperado, 1973)
“Desperado,” the title track from the album, is a Don Henley showcase. Its desolate, windswept ambiance evokes images of tumbleweeds and vast sunsets, creating a powerfully cinematic listening experience. The song’s poignant lyrics and Henley’s emotive vocals combine to create a timeless ballad about loneliness and the yearning for connection. “Desperado” is a masterclass in mood-setting, demonstrating the Eagles’ ability to create songs that are both musically rich and emotionally resonant.
15. “Hotel California” (Hotel California, 1976)
Finally, we arrive at “Hotel California,” arguably the Eagles’ signature song and an undisputed champion of rock music. It’s more than just a song; it’s an aural movie, encompassing evocative lyrics, social commentary, and a surreal narrative. And then there’s that guitar jam – an epic instrumental outro that rightfully belongs in the pantheon of guitar legends alongside “Stairway to Heaven” and “Free Bird.” “Hotel California” encapsulates everything that makes the Eagles iconic: masterful musicianship, compelling storytelling, and an ability to create music that transcends generations.
This Eagles songs list represents just a glimpse into their vast and influential catalog. From mellow ballads to rock anthems, the Eagles have consistently delivered music that resonates with audiences worldwide. Their songs are not just tunes; they are soundtracks to countless lives, cementing their place as legends in music history.
