The Eagles, often referred to as “The Beatles of America” by some, revolutionized the country rock genre and achieved widespread success with their genre-defying sound. Although band members have often downplayed the comparison, the Eagles’ impact on music was undeniable. Their ability to seamlessly blend rock, country, and pop not only defined the band but also opened up country rock to the rest of the world.
The Rise of the Eagles: A Unique American Sound
From the release of their debut album Eagles in 1972, it was evident that this band had created a sound that would stand the test of time. Their harmonies, combined with a mix of rock and country influences, resonated deeply with listeners, helping them climb the charts. Over the years, their music became ingrained in American culture. Decades later, the Eagles are still selling out arenas on their farewell tour, showcasing how enduring their music has become.
Glenn Frey, one of the founding members, acknowledged this lasting legacy when the band first disbanded in 1980. “While the band did break up in 1980, our music continued without us,” Frey remarked. “It was becoming increasingly apparent to me that, no matter where I went or what I did, for the rest of my life, I would always be an Eagle.”
Don Felder’s Impact: Shaping the Rock Side of the Eagles
A pivotal moment in the Eagles’ musical evolution came when guitarist Don Felder joined the band in 1974. His arrival added a heavier rock edge to the Eagles’ country rock sound, propelling them into new territory. This was particularly evident on their Hotel California album, where Felder’s guitar work added a hard rock dimension to the band’s signature harmonies and storytelling.
One of the best examples of Felder’s influence is the hit track “Life in the Fast Lane.” With its driving guitar riff, the song exemplified how the Eagles expanded their sound to include more rock-oriented tracks. Slash, the legendary guitarist from Guns N’ Roses, even praised the song’s opening riff, calling it “absolutely killer.”
Glenn Frey was quick to acknowledge Felder’s influence on the band’s sound, noting that Felder brought something new and exciting to their music. “Since we got Felder in the band, we’ve had a much better second half—the rock ’n’ roll half—in our shows,” Frey explained. “The other part, the vocal-harmony softer part, was always real good, but Felder nails down the harder stuff.”
Felder’s Driving Force in the Band
Don Felder’s unique guitar style helped the Eagles evolve and diversify their music. His slide guitar technique, often compared to that of Duane Allman, brought a more dynamic, driving sound to the band’s rock tracks. Frey compared Felder’s playing to that of a true driving force within the band, adding, “He’s like Duane Allman: he drives the band on certain songs. Some slide players, myself included, just slide along with the song, but when Felder plays, the whole thing revolves around him.”
Felder’s contributions to the Eagles went beyond just technical guitar prowess. His musical vision helped shape the band’s most successful era, particularly with songs that leaned more heavily on rock elements, without abandoning their country roots. This evolution is part of what made albums like Hotel California such monumental successes in the world of classic rock.
The Enduring Legacy of the Eagles
Even after the Eagles disbanded in 1980, their music lived on, continuing to influence new generations of listeners. From their harmonious soft ballads to their harder-edged rock hits, the Eagles proved their versatility time and time again. And Don Felder, with his rock-driven approach, was central to that transformation. His work on Hotel California remains one of the defining elements of the Eagles’ legacy, and his impact on country rock continues to resonate.
As the Eagles wrap up their farewell tour, their music still sells out arenas and captivates audiences. The seamless blend of country and rock, driven by members like Don Felder, has cemented the Eagles as one of the most important American bands in music history.
