A constant motif of the past few weeks has been waking up to learn about the untimely passing of an iconic artist; Tuesday was no exception. As many may be aware, news broke that Eagles frontman Glenn Frey had passed away due to complications from rheumatoid arthritis and pneumonia. Tributes flooded in from all corners of the globe as fans and friends learnt of the legendary singer/songwriter’s passing.
David Bowie’s death last week shocked the world and provoked a widespread reaction from almost everyone, diehard fans and admirers alike, but Frey’s passing has gone somewhat under the radar. Although Frey was a lesser known entity than Bowie, the impact of his music has been equally profound.
Undoubtedly one of the biggest and most revered bands of the 20th Century, Eagles’ 1976 greatest hits album went on to become the biggest selling record of the century. On top of this they churned out hit after hit and continue to be played on the radio. Glenn Frey was not only frontman of the band but in partnership with drummer-singer Don Henley crafted some of the finest songs to be put on record.
For me this is the end of the era that started when I was about eight years old, the first time I ever listened to my favourite song, ‘Take it Easy’. From that point onwards, Glenn Frey and his band mates changed my understanding of music in a way that continues to drive me to find new approaches to rock and roll. Although I will continue to love the Eagles, their music will carry a more significant weight. Their music represents both the manifestation and loss of innocence and to me, Glenn Frey’s death represents a disconnection from a previous time. I’m sure this is how Don McClean felt when he wrote ‘American Pie’ after Buddy Holly’s death.
Glenn Frey’s life and legacy will live on in his music and as I sit writing this in the lobby of a French hotel, listening to ‘Peaceful Easy Feeling’ and enjoying a somewhat poignant Tequila Sunrise, I am grateful.
