J.D. Souther, the prolific songwriter and musician behind some of the Eagles’ most iconic hits, has died at 78. Souther, whose contributions to country-rock shaped the Southern California sound in the 1970s, co-wrote many of the Eagles’ beloved songs, including “Best of My Love,” “New Kid in Town,” and “Heartache Tonight.” His passing was confirmed on September 17, 2024, though the cause of death was not immediately disclosed.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1945, Souther grew up in Amarillo, Texas, before moving to Los Angeles in the late 1960s. Here, he developed a close friendship and partnership with Glenn Frey, a founding member of the Eagles. The two first collaborated in a short-lived band called Longbranch Pennywhistle before co-writing hits for the Eagles that would define their sound and help establish their success. Souther once said of his time at The Troubadour, a famed music club in West Hollywood: “It was the best study in songwriting I can imagine.”
Souther’s influence extended beyond his work with the Eagles. He penned hits for artists like Linda Ronstadt, with whom he also had a romantic relationship. Some of their collaborations, such as “Faithless Love” and “White Rhythm and Blues,” became standards in Ronstadt’s repertoire. Souther also wrote songs for Bonnie Raitt, the Dixie Chicks, and George Strait, among others. His talent as a songwriter earned him a place in the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2013. Among the other artists he performed with were James Taylor, Roy Orbison, Dan Fogelberg and Christopher Cross.
Despite his success writing for others, Souther had a more modest solo career. His most notable solo hit, “You’re Only Lonely,” reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1979. He also recorded several duets with Ronstadt, including “If You Have Crying Eyes,” “Prisoner in Disguise,” and “Hearts Against the Wind,” the latter of which was featured in the soundtrack for the 1980 film Urban Cowboy.
In addition to his musical career, Souther explored acting, appearing in television shows such as “thirtysomething” and “Nashville” and films like “Postcards from the Edge” and “My Girl 2.”
Souther’s death comes just weeks before he was scheduled to perform alongside longtime collaborator Karla Bonoff in a fall concert series. His death has led to an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians and fans alike, acknowledging the depth of his contributions to the world of music. He is survived by his two sisters, his former wife, and her daughter.
Throughout his career, Souther remained a key figure in shaping the Southern California country-rock sound that defined an era. His influence continues to resonate with both musicians and audiences today.