The Eagles, synonymous with the laid-back California sound and country rock fusion, soared from the late 1960s music scene to become one of the best-selling bands 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 collaborative spirit with songwriters like Jackson Browne and JD Souther further solidified their place in music history. With a catalog boasting multi-platinum albums and timeless hits, the Eagles’ music continues to resonate across generations.
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The Eagles performing live in Scotland in 2022, featuring Don Henley, Joe Walsh, and Vince Gill. Discover the best Eagles songs.]
Having sold over 150 million records globally, the Eagles’ Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975) stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Michael Jackson’s Thriller in the race for the best-selling album of all time. Their trophy cabinet includes six Grammy Awards, inductions into the Rock & Roll and Vocal Group Halls of Fame, and a Kennedy Center Honor, underscoring their monumental impact on music. More than just accolades, the Eagles are the definitive voice of California rock, their name instantly invoked when discussing the genre.
Despite the heartbreaking loss of Glenn Frey in 2016 and Randy Meisner in 2023, the Eagles’ legacy endures. With Glenn’s son Deacon Frey and Vince Gill joining Don Henley and other long-time members, the band continues to tour, celebrating their iconic music with fans worldwide on their “Long Goodbye Tour.” Their enduring popularity proves the timeless appeal of their music.
Here’s a countdown of 15 of the Best Eagles Songs that have defined generations and continue to captivate listeners today:
1. “Doolin-Dalton” (Desperado, 1973)
Opening their conceptually ambitious second album, Desperado, “Doolin-Dalton” sets a cinematic tone inspired by the Wild West outlaws. This track, reprised throughout the album, establishes a theme of outlaw life and lost dreams. Its haunting melody and evocative lyrics showcase the Eagles’ early storytelling prowess, making it a standout track amongst their deep cuts.
2. “Peaceful Easy Feeling” (Eagles, 1972)
A Jack Tempchin gem, “Peaceful Easy Feeling” perfectly encapsulates the Eagles’ signature sound. Its laid-back melody, rich vocal harmonies, and organic instrumentation create an instantly comforting and uplifting atmosphere. This song is a quintessential example of their ability to craft easygoing yet deeply resonant tunes that become instant classics.
3. “Seven Bridges Road” (Eagles Live, 1980)
This live rendition of the Steve Young classic is a masterclass in vocal harmony. Primarily performed a cappella, “Seven Bridges Road” highlights the Eagles’ exceptional vocal blend and precision. The sheer beauty and tightness of their harmonies in this track are breathtaking, solidifying its place as a fan favorite and a testament to their vocal talent.
4. “Tequila Sunrise” (Desperado, 1973)
One of the first songwriting collaborations between Don Henley and Glenn Frey, “Tequila Sunrise” paints a vivid picture of mellow contemplation. While the title suggests daybreak, its mood is more akin to a tranquil sunset. The song’s gentle rhythm and reflective lyrics capture a sense of wistful longing, showcasing their ability to create atmosphere and emotion through music.
5. “Heartache Tonight” (The Long Run, 1979)
A Grammy-winning chart-topper from The Long Run, “Heartache Tonight” is a high-energy track co-written with Bob Seger, who also contributed uncredited backing vocals. It blends the Eagles’ signature harmonies with a more rock-infused sound, featuring Joe Walsh’s electrifying slide guitar work. This song demonstrates their versatility and ability to deliver both smooth ballads and driving rock anthems.
6. “How Long” (Long Road Out of Eden, 2007)
Released decades after its initial conception, “How Long,” penned by JD Souther, feels like a vintage Eagles track. The band had performed this anti-war song in the 1970s, rediscovering it and recording it for Long Road Out of Eden. Its timeless quality and relevant message showcase the enduring appeal of their music and songwriting, bridging generations of listeners.
7. “Already Gone” (On the Border, 1974)
This Jack Tempchin-penned anthem became an Eagles staple, showcasing a more assertive and guitar-driven sound. “Already Gone” provided a platform for Glenn Frey and new member Don Felder to unleash fiery guitar solos, marking a shift towards a harder rock edge while retaining their melodic sensibility. It’s a perfect driving song, embodying freedom and moving on.
8. “Best of My Love” (On the Border, 1974)
A Henley-sung ballad, “Best of My Love” delivered the Eagles their first No. 1 single on the Hot 100 chart. Its tender melody and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with audiences, making it a timeless love song. Its enduring popularity, nearly 50 years later, is a testament to its emotional depth and melodic beauty, solidifying its place among the best Eagles love songs.
9. “Lyin’ Eyes” (One of These Nights, 1975)
Inspired by observations at Dan Tana’s restaurant in Los Angeles, “Lyin’ Eyes” tells a captivating story of infidelity and societal facades. The song’s majestic chorus harmonies create a paradoxical effect, making the critical lyrics sound almost comforting. This narrative ballad showcases their storytelling ability and talent for crafting complex emotional landscapes within a single song.
10. “I Can’t Tell You Why” (The Long Run, 1979)
Timothy B. Schmit’s standout moment with the Eagles, “I Can’t Tell You Why,” is a soulful and emotionally charged slow jam. Schmit’s pure tenor vocals and the song’s intense atmosphere are punctuated by a transportive guitar solo that rivals even “Hotel California” in its emotional impact. This track highlights the depth and range of the Eagles’ musical talent beyond their more famous anthems.
11. “Take It to the Limit” (One of These Nights, 1975)
Randy Meisner takes center stage on “Take It to the Limit,” a powerful ballad exploring themes of perseverance and the struggle to keep going. Meisner’s soaring falsetto vocals are a defining feature of this track, adding to its emotional intensity. Co-written by Meisner, Henley, and Frey, it stands as a testament to his vocal and songwriting contributions to the band.
12. “Life in the Fast Lane” (Hotel California, 1976)
The Eagles’ most definitive rocker, “Life in the Fast Lane,” is a high-octane track driven by the dynamic guitar duo of Joe Walsh and Don Felder. Its driving rhythm, edgy lyrics, and blistering guitar work make it an unforgettable anthem of excess and living on the edge. This song showcases the band’s raw energy and rock and roll prowess.
13. “Take It Easy” (Eagles, 1972)
The song that launched it all, “Take It Easy,” a collaboration between Glenn Frey and Jackson Browne, put Winslow, Arizona, on the map and became an instant classic. Its breezy melody, relatable lyrics about navigating life’s troubles, and infectious energy embody the carefree spirit of early Eagles. It remains one of their most beloved and recognizable songs.
14. “Desperado” (Desperado, 1973)
The title track from their second album, “Desperado,” is a Don Henley showcase, a cinematic ballad evoking images of the desolate Wild West. Its melancholic melody and introspective lyrics create a powerful atmosphere of loneliness and longing. This song exemplifies the Eagles’ ability to craft emotionally resonant ballads with cinematic scope.
15. “Hotel California” (Hotel California, 1976)
The undisputed champion, “Hotel California,” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. This aural masterpiece encompasses evocative lyrics, social commentary, surreal imagery, and an iconic guitar jam that ranks among the greatest of all time, alongside “Stairway to Heaven” and “Free Bird.” “Hotel California” encapsulates the Eagles’ artistic ambition and musical genius, solidifying its place as their signature song and one of the best songs in rock history.
The Eagles’ catalog is a treasure trove of musical gems, and these 15 songs represent just a glimpse into their incredible artistry. From country-tinged ballads to rock anthems, their music continues to captivate and inspire, proving their enduring legacy as one of the best bands of all time. Explore these best Eagles songs and rediscover the magic of their timeless sound.
