A talent as massive as the soaring harmonies that defined the band itself, Glenn Frey of The Eagles can be heard on some of the biggest tracks by the group, both physically and in spirit, contributing to the image of the outfit and beyond. Deemed as "America's Band," the loss of Mr. Frey can't be quantified. An archetypal figure in music, Frey died Monday, Jan. 18. He was 67 years old.
The cause of death was due to complications from rheumatoid arthritis, acute ulcerative colitis and pneumonia. Perhaps one of the most iconic groups who drove the 1970s music scene, Frey's presence as an Eagle and in music as whole was immense and incalculable. Yet another fallen star, Mr. Frey will be missed by many.
The sphere in which the Eagles existed encapsulated an entire period of music, perfectly capturing a vibe prevalent not only in Los Angeles but the entire country. He sang lead vocals on "Take It Easy," "Peaceful Easy Feeling," "Lyin' Eyes" and more and had a flair that epitomized a generation and branded the era.
For Mr. Frey, the soft and twangy quality that dictated the sonic direction of the band was subject to critical praise and scorn. You can recall the Dude from The Big Lebowski lamenting on his disdain for the Eagles, particularly Frey's vocals in "Peaceful Easy Feeling."
A Detroit expatriate who migrated to the warm shores of Southern California, Frey would help embody the easy feeling associated with California in his music, relaying images of a sun-touched landscape through his lyrics. Frey ran with a crew of musicians who passed through the iconic Troubadour venue in Los Angeles, the likes of Tom Waits, Joni Mitchell, Harry Nilsson and Linda Ronstadt.
He even ended up in the band backing Ronstadt and Don Henley, a fellow Eagle.
The band was era-defining and have continued to perform to this day and so it is with a heavy heart, we extend our condolences to Mr. Frey's family and loved ones.
Remember Glenn Frey fondly with a performance of "Take It Easy" from 1977 below.
