Don Henley, co-founder and frontman of the Eagles, is embroiled in a legal battle to reclaim over 100 pages of handwritten lyrics from the band’s iconic 1970s era.
The documents, believed to include drafts for classic hits like “Hotel California”, were reportedly at the center of a recent criminal trial that ended abruptly. Henley’s attorney, Daniel Petrocelli, claims the lyrics were stolen and never authorized for sale.
“These 100 pages of personal lyric sheets belong to Mr. Henley and his family, and he has never authorized defendants or anyone else to peddle them for profit,” Henley’s attorney, Daniel Petrocelli, stated in an official statement.
Continuing the Dispute with a Lawsuit
While criminal charges against memorabilia dealer Edward Kosinski, former Rock & Roll Hall of Fame curator Craig Inciardi, and rare book dealer Glenn Horowitz were dropped in March, Henley is now pursuing the documents through a civil lawsuit.
Petrocelli, claims the lyrics were stolen and never authorized for sale. The lawsuit, filed in a New York federal court, seeks their return and a declaration of ownership. The documents were reportedly valued at over $700,000 during the criminal case.
The origin of the dispute lies with writer Ed Sanders who claimed to have received the lyrics decades ago while researching a book on the Eagles that was never completed. How the materials ended up in the hands of the defendants remains unclear.
Eagles Lyrics Held by District Attorney’s Office
The Eagles lyrics remain in limbo following the dismissal of criminal charges. The New York District Attorney’s Office is currently holding the handwritten documents as they attempt to determine rightful ownership.
Henley’s lawsuit argues that Kosinski and Inciardi have falsely claimed ownership. The suit seeks a court declaration naming Henley as the rightful owner. This declaration would provide the “satisfactory proof of title” needed for the district attorney to return the lyrics to Henley.
While the legal battle continues, the Eagles are set to return to the stage. Their Las Vegas residency at the Sphere kicks off in three months, after recently extending its run.