Remembering Glenn Frey 1948 – 2016
I can remember where I was and exactly what I was doing when learning Beatle great John Lennon was gunned down on a winter night in New York City in December of 1980. The same can be said for the events that unfolded on September 11, 2001, also in New York City. Like a shot to the heart, I will always remember where I was and what I was doing when hearing the news of Glenn Frey’s passing on January 18th, 2016, ironically in New York City.
Growing up in the 70’s, it was the songwriting duo Frey and Henley and their bandmates, together known as The Eagles, that seemed to be everywhere. Spinning records at home (and friends homes), AM radio and FM Stereo, eight track tape players, every (parents not at home) house party, senior skip day, and of course backseat parking at the end of that country two-track road…there they were…Glenn Frey and The Eagles. The Eagles provided the soundtrack to my youth and it’s a safe bet that If you grew up in the 70’s, they provided the soundtrack to yours also.
There were many great bands of the 70’s, and when the classic rock format came to FM radio in the early 1980’s, it was The Eagles leading the way. We also heard them on Country, Pop and Easy Listening formats too. Their music appealed and continues to appeal across many genre’s.
I’m not sure why, but Glenn’s passing allowed me to hear things in their music I didn’t necessarily hear before, it’s as if I listen with more focus now. I always knew it was there, but now when I listen to The Eagles I hear the brilliance, I hear the songwriting genius, I hear the harmonies, and I hear the words more clearly. I also hear studio excellence and I hear them dual guitars like never before. Will miss you Glenn, thanks for opening my ears.
Buck
