The Eagles turned California country rock into one of the most commercially successful sounds in music history. Glenn Frey and Don Henley's songwriting partnership produced songs that were immaculately crafted, lyrically sharp, and designed to sound perfect on FM radio. Their Greatest Hits collection is one of the best selling albums of all time. ahead of Thriller, ahead of Back in Black.\n\nHotel California was their artistic peak, a concept album about the dark side of the American Dream wrapped in some of the most recognizable guitar work in rock. Joe Walsh's addition to the lineup brought a harder edge that balanced the band's smoother tendencies. The punk movement loathed everything they stood for, which only made them more popular. Their breakup in 1980 was legendarily acrimonious. Their reunion in 1994 proved that money talks.
Key Albums
The title track's twin guitar outro is one of rock's most iconic moments. The album is darker and more ambitious than their earlier work.
A concept album about outlaws that produced "Tequila Sunrise" and the devastating title ballad.
One of the best selling albums in history. Every track is a classic rock radio staple.
Why They Matter
The Eagles perfected a strain of California rock that blended country, folk, and rock into something timelessly commercial. Their songcraft is undeniable even if their polished sound made them an easy target for punk's contempt.