Randy Meisner, Eagles Co-Founder, Passes Away at 77.
Randy Meisner, Co-Founder of the Eagles, Passes Away at 77
Randy Meisner, a co-founding member of the Eagles and the vocalist on their first major hit, “Take It to the Limit,” has sadly passed away at the age of 77. The band announced his death on their website, revealing that Meisner died in Los Angeles due to complications from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
“Randy was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band,” said the Eagles in a statement. “His vocal range was astonishing, as is evident on his signature ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit.'”
Meisner was born in Scotts Bluff, Nebraska, on March 8, 1946. His passion for music began at a young age when he became interested in the guitar after watching Elvis Presley perform on “The Ed Sullivan Show.”
In the 1960s, Meisner moved to California and became a bassist and vocalist for Rick Nelson’s Stone Canyon Band. He later joined the pioneering country-rock group Poco as their original bass player. It was during this time that Meisner crossed paths with Glenn Frey, Don Henley, and Bernie Leadon, who would go on to form the Eagles.
Together, the Eagles became one of the most successful musical acts of the 1970s, with five number-one singles, six number-one albums, and numerous awards. Meisner’s high harmony singing and bass playing were essential to the band’s sound, and his songwriting contributions were featured on all of their albums.
After leaving the Eagles in 1977 due to exhaustion, Meisner pursued a solo career and also joined the country rock supergroup Black Tie. In 1998, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the Eagles.
Despite his musical success, Meisner faced personal struggles, including bipolar disorder and issues with alcohol. He experienced personal tragedies, including the accidental death of his second wife, Lana Rae, in 2016.
In a recent interview with Rock Cellar Magazine, Meisner reflected on the Eagles’ legacy and the enduring appeal of their music. He expressed his gratitude for the fact that younger generations continue to listen to their songs.
“It’s just good to know that kids nowadays are listening to it,” he said. ”It’s long-standing music. They’re good songs.”
Randy Meisner’s passing comes shortly after the announcement of the Eagles’ final tour, titled the “Long Goodbye” tour, scheduled to begin in September 2023.
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