Eagles’ Famous Songs — From Signature Tracks to Hidden Fan Favorites
The Eagles, based on the West Coast and blazing through the music scene of the 1970s, achieved worldwide popularity.
From their early, breezy country-tinged numbers to the mid-to-late period where they leaned more into rock and tackled heavier themes, the songs they left behind include a long list of classics that have secured their place in music history.
In this article, we’ve picked out not only their signature tracks that almost everyone has heard at least once, but also fan favorites, hidden gems, and songs from after their reunion.
If you’ve recently become interested in the Eagles’ music, be sure to use this as a guide!
Eagles’ Masterpieces — From Signature Hits to Hidden Gems (1–10)
Hotel CaliforniaThe Eagles
When it comes to the Eagles’ signature songs, Hotel California is the first that comes to mind.
Released in 1976 and included on the album of the same name—which has sold over 32 million copies worldwide—it was issued as a single the following year and became a massive hit.
In Japan, it has been used as a TV drama theme and in commercials, making it widely known to the general public.
Yet it is not a song that is merely consumed as popular music; it is a masterpiece that holds significant importance in music history.
Its lyrics are rich with suggestions and have inspired many interpretations, its perfectly executed band ensemble sustains a six-and-a-half-minute structure, and the twin-guitar solo in the latter half is superb.
Listening to this song, in itself, can be called a musical experience.
I Can’t Tell You WhyThe Eagles
Also known by its Japanese title “Iidasenakute” (“I Can’t Tell You Why”), this is a ballad with an AOR-tinged, sophisticated urban vibe.
If you only know the Eagles for their country flavor or the harder American rock of their later mid-period and beyond, you might be surprised when you hear this song for the first time.
It appears on The Long Run, the final album before their first breakup, released in 1979, and was issued as a single the following year, reaching No.
8 on the U.S.
Billboard chart.
Timothy B.
Schmit, formerly of Poco, who joined as the bassist in 1977, takes the lead vocal—be sure to notice his beautifully wistful falsetto.
Take It EasyThe Eagles
It’s one of the Eagles’ early signature songs and their landmark debut single.
Co-written by lead vocalist Glenn Frey and the renowned singer-songwriter Jackson Browne, it’s a pop number with a strong country flavor, marked by the light touch of banjo and the resonant sound of steel guitar.
Its breezy vibe feels quintessentially American rock, and it’s interesting how the sound here gives no hint of the heavier, more elaborate band ensemble they’d develop in their mid-period and beyond.
As a side note, there’s also a version by co-writer Jackson Browne, so be sure to compare the two.
DESPERADOThe Eagles
Released in 1973, this classic was also selected for Rolling Stone’s 2004 list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
When people think of an Eagles ballad, this is likely the first song that comes to mind.
In Japan, it’s also well known under the title “Narazumono” (“Outlaw”).
Don Henley, who wrote the lyrics, also handles lead vocals, and the song—woven from simple piano accompaniment, strings, and a lean, unfussy band arrangement—exudes an ineffable melancholy that leaves listeners with a wistful sadness.
Covered by many artists, it’s a timeless ballad that continues to be loved across generations.
Take It To The LimitThe Eagles
Included on the classic 1975 album One of These Nights, this song was released as a single and became a major hit, reaching No.
4 on the U.S.
charts.
It’s a fan favorite and one of the signature numbers among the tracks led by Randy Meisner—an original Eagles member and their first bassist.
Beyond their instrumental prowess, the fact that multiple members could take lead vocals shows just how extraordinarily talented the Eagles were as a group.
Meisner’s soaring high vocals on this track are crystal-clear and exquisitely beautiful—truly moving.
Be sure to check out live recordings as well.