Don Henley on Eagles' 'Good Old Boys' Image

Don Henley, a founding member of the Eagles, often expressed frustration with how the band was perceived. He believed the group was frequently typecast as "laid-back, mellow, the LA cowboys," an image he felt did not accurately represent their diverse musical ambitions and the intense work behind their sound. This perception, Henley stated, stuck with the band despite their efforts to change it.

Eagles' Vision Beyond California Sound

Don Henley and Glenn Frey, the primary songwriters for the Eagles, had ambitious goals for the band. They aimed for a stature comparable to rock giants like Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones. While these English bands projected a majestic image, the Eagles carved out a sound that became synonymous with Americana.

This Americana, however, was not the traditional country folk music often associated with the term. Instead, it was a unique blend that captured a specific American sensibility. The band wanted to avoid being confined to a single musical style, even if their early success suggested otherwise.

The Impact of 'Take It Easy'

The song 'Take It Easy,' co-written by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey, became one of the Eagles' most significant early hits. Its relaxed feel and catchy melody quickly defined a part of their public image. The track featured a banjo, played by Bernie Leadon, which provided a connection to the country music community, a genre that was part of the band's broader musical tapestry.

While 'Take It Easy' was a massive success and resonated with many listeners, Henley felt its easygoing nature inadvertently led to the band being pigeonholed. He believed this early hit, despite its popularity, limited how critics and the public viewed their artistic range.

"A lot of those early writers who said we were laid-back, mellow, ‘the LA cowboys’, yada yada, all that crap – there was nothing mellow about us. But that stuff stuck like glue. We did everything we could to shake it."

Don Henley

Navigating Audience Expectations

Henley also faced the challenge of connecting with an audience whose views might differ from his own. Despite these differences, he expressed a willingness to engage, provided the conversation remained respectful. This approach highlighted his desire for broader appeal without succumbing to divisive topics.

The band's intention was to offer a diverse musical experience. They incorporated elements from various American genres, including soulful moments reminiscent of Motown, powerful rock and roll, and even ventured into new wave sounds during later albums like 'The Long Run.'

Striving for Musical Versatility

Henley consistently emphasized the band's commitment to musical exploration. He did not want the Eagles to be defined by a single genre or a specific sound, even if country music remained an important part of their catalog. This drive for versatility was a core aspect of their artistic identity.

The band's discography reflects this ambition, featuring songs that range from ballads to hard rock, showcasing their ability to adapt and innovate within the American music landscape. This constant evolution was a direct response to the early typecasting Henley often spoke about.

• Early Hits: 'Take It Easy,' 'Witchy Woman,' 'Peaceful Easy Feeling'
• Genre Blends: Country rock, folk rock, hard rock, and elements of pop.
• Later Explorations: Touches of new wave on albums like 'The Long Run.'

Ultimately, Don Henley sought to ensure that the Eagles' legacy reflected their full artistic scope. He wanted listeners to appreciate the multiple layers of their music, not just the initial, easygoing image that became so pervasive. The band's continued success across decades demonstrates their ability to transcend simple labels and create lasting music.