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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)

One Of These NightsThe Eagles

This is the title track of the landmark album One of These Nights, a defining masterpiece of 1970s American rock that became a massive hit and opens the album.

Written by Don Henley and Glenn Frey, it features lead vocals by Henley.

Their early country flavor recedes into the background here, giving way to a clear display of their musical direction with pronounced hard rock and funky elements.

The striking quality of the bass line in the intro is also not to be missed.

It’s said that the song’s funky character was brought in by Don Felder, for whom this album marked his full-fledged entry into the Eagles’ recording process.

Best of My LoveThe Eagles

Eagles – Best of My Love ( 1974 )
Best of My LoveThe Eagles

A classic ballad colored by a wistful acoustic guitar backing, steel guitar by early member Bernie Leadon, and skillful choral work.

In Japan, it might be better known by its Japanese title, “Waga Ai no Shijō” (Supreme of My Love).

Don Henley handles the lead vocals, and while he isn’t a member, J.D.

Souther—who supported the Eagles and the 1970s West Coast rock boom—participated in the songwriting.

When this song is performed live, it’s customary for drummer Henley to come to the front of the stage and sing while playing acoustic guitar.

New Kid in TownThe Eagles

Released in 1976 as the lead single preceding the historic masterpiece Hotel California, this track features Glenn Frey on lead vocals.

The smooth electric piano and organ sounds were contributed by Joe Walsh, who had joined the band the previous year.

The beautiful choral work is also noteworthy, and compared to the album’s shocking content, the song carries a vibe that feels more in line with the Eagles’ traditional taste.

Here, pay attention to the ironic lyrics that run counter to the song’s breezy feel.

It’s also interesting to listen while considering the meaning behind Frey’s own comment that he dedicated it to Daryl Hall & John Oates.

The Last ResortThe Eagles

Eagles – The Last Resort (Official Audio)
The Last ResortThe Eagles

It’s a grand, over-seven-minute track that closes out Hotel California.

It’s a piece worthy of concluding such a historic masterpiece, and it’s been performed at their reunion concerts as well.

It also appears as the B-side to the single Life in the Fast Lane.

According to Don Henley, who handled lead vocals, it’s one of his personal favorites.

The lyrics, sung as if speaking directly to the listener, are very serious in nature.

What, exactly, does “The Last Resort” signify here? Take the time to sit with the song and reflect on its deeper meaning.

How LongThe Eagles

Eagles – How Long (Official Video) [HD]
How LongThe Eagles

A lively country-rock number that was included on Long Road Out of Eden, their first original album in 28 years since 1979’s The Long Run, and released as a single.

The original version is a song released in 1972 by J.D.

Souther, a key figure deeply connected to the early Eagles and indispensable to any discussion of 1970s West Coast rock.

With lead vocals by Glenn Frey and Don Henley and superb choral work, it’s a quintessential Eagles track.

It’s really wonderful to see the members, now fully grown, happily delivering this crisp, feel-good country rock.