Sometimes, even the most iconic songs carry baggage for the artists who created them. Whether it’s the emotional weight of the lyrics or sheer repetition, performing certain tracks can feel more like a burden than a joy. Musicians often grapple with the personal meaning behind their songs, and for some, reliving those moments is too much to bear.
The Eagles have produced a treasure trove of unforgettable hits, thanks in no small part to the chemistry between Don Henley and Glenn Frey. Their voices blended seamlessly, crafting a signature sound that defined the band’s legacy. But beneath the surface of their success lay personal dynamics that occasionally influenced creative decisions.
For Don Henley, one particular song struck a chord he chose not to revisit. His refusal to sing it wasn’t just about the music but also deeply tied to his relationship with Glenn Frey. Their collaboration may have propelled the Eagles to fame, but it also left behind stories that remain untold—until now.
The Loss That Changed Everything
Glenn Frey was instrumental in shaping the Eagles’ sound, contributing not only vocals but also guitar, keyboard, and piano. His passing on January 18, 2016, due to complications from pneumonia, colitis, and rheumatoid arthritis, left a deep void. Fans and close friends, including Don Henley, struggled to cope with the loss.
For Henley, continuing without Glenn felt impossible at first. He refused to carry on as the Eagles until Deacon Frey, Glenn’s son, stepped in to fill his father’s shoes. This move marked a new chapter for the band while honoring Glenn’s legacy.
Months later, Henley spoke to the Montreal Gazette about the difficulty of performing songs he co-wrote with Glenn. He especially mentioned “Desperado,” a song that he always performed live as a tribute, viewing it as a crucial part of his healing process.
Henley’s Emotional Stance on Glenn Frey’s Songs
Don Henley admitted that despite co-writing several of Glenn Frey’s songs, he couldn’t bring himself to sing any of them. Henley explained that performing “Desperado” is particularly emotional because it was the first song he and Glenn wrote together.
Every time Henley sings it, he dedicates the song to Glenn, and both the crowd and Henley himself feel the weight of the moment. He views it as an essential part of the healing process, for both himself and the audience.
However, Henley made it clear that while he co-wrote many of Glenn’s songs, he refuses to perform them. He believes it wouldn’t feel right, even if he had a hand in their creation, and he stands firm in his decision not to sing them.