Legendary Songwriter JD Souther, Architect of Eagles’ Iconic Hits, Passes Away at 78 in New Mexico Home
Singer-Songwriter behind Eagles’ Big Hits, JD Souther, Dies at 78 in His New Mexico Home: Details
JD Souther, a well-known singer-songwriter who contributed to the sound of the 1970s, has departed, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.
JD Souther, who co-wrote several Eagles and Linda Ronstadt classics, passed away at the age of 78. The singer, who had a significant role in shaping the sound of Southern California country-rock, was at home in New Mexico at the time of his untimely death; nevertheless, the circumstances of his passing are still unknown.
One of the Eagles’ representatives verified Souther’s passing. Even next week, the singer was supposed to start a tour in Phoenix. The music business as a whole will surely feel his departure, especially from those whose careers he influenced.
His ability to write hits, such as “Best of My Love,” which peaked at number one, was a major factor in the Eagles’ success. Don Henley, a guitarist and personal friend of Souther, recently honored him during a January show and referred to him as a member of the tight-knit group of musicians who influenced the band’s sound.
In addition to his musical accomplishments, Souther enjoyed success in the theater. He starred in films like “My Girl 2” and television shows like “Nashville” and “Thirtysomething.” He collaborated with a number of other musicians in the interim, writing songs that were recorded by George Strait and Bonnie Raitt, among others.
There was an overwhelming outpouring of mourning upon hearing of his passing. The statement on his official Facebook page read, “We are sorry to inform you of this news on behalf of Team JD. 💔.”
Stephen Bishop, a songwriter, also posted condolences on X, saying, “JD and I shared many memories, but one that stands out is when we wrote a song together called ‘For Love’ back in the 1980s.” Even though they never completed the song, Bishop continued, he will always “cherish that collaboration.”
Stephen Thomas Erlewine, senior pop editor at TiVo, considered Souther’s legacy in light of his Eagles contributions. Freelance writer Ethan Beck went on to say that his masterpieces were superior to the more popular music of the 1970s. Along with those songs, he also emphasized “The Fast One” and “Some People Call It Music.”
After hearing of Souther’s passing, fans expressed similar feelings. Someone commented on X, saying, “He was a fantastic vocalist and a brilliant lyricist. His song “You’re Only Lonely” is hauntingly beautiful and emotionally powerful.” “He was an intricate part of The Eagles without being an Eagle,” said a second Facebook comment. He and Glenn are back together. I appreciate the music, and I hope you rest easy.
Someone who claimed to have worked with Bob Dylan and Souther sent a heartfelt message. The final statement was, “His songs are of the highest caliber and will always be played and remembered,” recalling a songwriting session between the two legends.
From the beginning of his existence, Souther had a strong bond with music. He was surrounded by brilliance from an early age, having been born in Detroit in 1945. John Souther, his father, went under the stage name Johnny Warren and played with big bands.
The family moved about a lot before settling in Amarillo, Texas, where Souther spent the most of his early years. His admiration for songwriting was influenced by his exposure to jazz greats and famous performers like Victor Borge.
After graduating from Amarillo College, Souther traveled to Los Angeles and was eager to get involved in the thriving music culture of the city. At the storied Troubadour club, he soon found himself surrounded by future stars like Glenn Frey and Jackson Browne.
This caused him and Frey to join the band Longbranch/Pennywhistle. Despite the group’s lack of financial success, it helped pave the way for Souther’s solo endeavors.
Souther worked with many of the best musicians of the day and gained popularity as a songwriter in the 1970s. This solidified his place among the pioneers of the country-rock genre in Southern California.
In addition, Souther’s solo triumph came in 1979 thanks to the popular song “You’re Only Lonely.” Acting was his next passion, and his most notable performance was a recurring one in “Nashville” as the Wyatt family’s buddy Watty White.
Even during times of relative calm, Souther’s impact on the music industry remained significant. His remarkable musical legacy will endure as a tribute to his songwriter and performer heritage. During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fans.
