Jonh David “JD” Souther, Singer-songwriter and actor who co-wrote several Eagles hits like New Kid in Town and Best of My Love dies at 78. A representative for the Eagles confirmed his death this week, revealing no cause of death. According to the statement disclosing the icon’s passing on Tuesday, JD died peacefully in his home in New Mexico. While details about his cause of death are yet to be made public, the star seemingly maintained an active lifestyle during his final days, with no signs of slowing down.
In fact, JD Souther, who dominated the country-rock sound in Southern California via his collaborations with the Eagles in the 70s remained in the music scene until his death. Reports show the legend performed on stage five days before his passing and had a tour slated for next week in Phoenix. The joint concert would have seen him perform alongside fellow Southern California 70s legend Karla Bonoff with several dates lined up this Fall. While fans of the prolific singer-songwriter looking forward to his upcoming concerts had their dreams crushed, JD Southern leaves behind an outstanding legacy.
Born in Detroit and raised in Amarillo, JD Souther discovered his chosen path earlier on, eventually moving to Los Angeles in the 60s, and began pursuing his dreams. The move spearheaded his meeting with Glenn Frey, a fellow Michigan Native and founding member of the Eagles who eventually became a big stepping stone in his career. JD and the guitarist commenced their longtime partnership in the 60s with their Longbranch Pennywhistle band.
He also had a handful of solo records including his self-titled 1972 debut track. He later formed the Souther-Hillman Furay Band alongside Chris Hillman and Richie Furay. While JD Souther’s solo efforts gained him recognition within the Southern Californian music sphere, his collaborations with the Eagles remain some of his biggest musical achievements.
In 2013, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, marking one of his biggest career milestones. The honor recognized JD as a “principal architect of the Southern California Sound, and a major influence on a generation of songwriters,” per AP News.
Before his death, JD Souther lived up to these symbolic recognitions, lending his lyrical prowess to several hit songs for the Eagles, and other famed artists he worked with. Some of these famous collaborators included James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt, and Bob Serger. Having led an impactful life contributing to the arts, JD Southern would live on through generations even as he dies without treating the world to his final tour.
