Eagles co-founder Randy Meisner, a prominent figure in the music industry, has sadly passed away at the age of 77. The band confirmed this somber news via a Facebook post on Thursday.
Meisner’s passing was attributed to complications stemming from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, as stated in the official Facebook announcement.
Randy Meisner’s musical journey began as the original bass player for the influential country-rock group, Poco, a pioneering band at the forefront of the musical revolution that swept through Los Angeles in the late 1960s. In 1971, he, along with Glenn Frey, Don Henley, and Bernie Leadon, came together to form the Eagles. Meisner made substantial contributions to the band’s albums, including “Eagles,” “Desperado,” “On The Border,” “One of These Nights,” and the iconic “Hotel California.” Their collective achievements culminated in their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.
Randy Meisner’s impact on the Eagles was undeniable, and he played a pivotal role in the band’s early success. His remarkable vocal range is exemplified in his signature ballad, “Take It to the Limit.”
At this time, funeral arrangements for Randy Meisner are pending, as conveyed in the Facebook post.
Sorry to hear #Eagles #musician Randy Meisner has left us. He was an incredible #singer #songwriter and #bassist. Peace to his friends and family. #Takeittothelimit #rip #RandyMeisner pic.twitter.com/S3tAOcv2fO
— Randy Bachman (@RandysVinylTap) July 28, 2023
One of Meisner’s former bandmates, Don Felder, affectionately referred to him as “the sweetest man in the music business.” Randy Meisner served as the lead bassist alongside Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and Bernie Leadon in the ’70s, a period during which the Eagles transitioned from country rock to hard rock. This transformation led to a string of hit singles and albums, including chart-toppers such as “Take It Easy,” “Desperado,” “Hotel California,” and “Life In The Fast Lane.”
The Eagles faced both acclaim and criticism from music critics, with some labeling their music as slick and shallow. Nevertheless, the band achieved unparalleled popularity, with two of the best-selling albums in history, “Hotel California” and “Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975).”
During the “Hotel California” tour, Meisner encountered personal challenges, including a failing first marriage and homesickness. His distinctive tenor voice was showcased in the hit song “Take It to the Limit,” which put him in the spotlight. However, a backstage argument with Glenn Frey during a concert in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1977 ultimately led to Meisner’s departure from the band. Timothy B. Schmit took his place and remained with the group alongside Henley, Walsh, and Frey until Frey’s passing in 2016.
Randy Meisner, in a 1981 interview with People Magazine, expressed that he could have earned more money had he stayed with the Eagles. However, he prioritized his mental well-being over financial gains, considering the taxing nature of constant touring.
After leaving the Eagles, Meisner pursued a solo career. While he didn’t achieve the same level of success as the band, he enjoyed hits with songs like “Hearts On Fire” and “Deep Inside My Heart.” Additionally, he contributed to records by artists such as Joe Walsh, James Taylor, and Dan Fogelberg.
Randy Meisner was married twice, first to his high school sweetheart, Jennifer Lee Barton, with whom he had three children before their divorce in 1981. His second marriage took place in November 1996, to Lana Rae, who regrettably passed away in 2016.
In a 2016 interview with Rock Cellar Magazine, Meisner reflected on the Eagles’ enduring legacy, stating, “It’s just good to know that kids nowadays are listening to it. It’s long-standing music. They’re good songs. The lyrics are really good, and the way that they were produced and the way that we played them. That’s why on ‘Hotel California’ we were so precise and wanting to make it so perfect. We made sure we got it so good.”
Following Randy Meisner’s passing, Canadian guitarist Randy Bachman took to Twitter to pay tribute to the late musician, acknowledging him as an incredible singer, songwriter, and bassist.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Randy Meisner’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.