John David “JD” Souther, a renowned songwriter and musician instrumental in defining the country-rock genre in Southern California during the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 78. He died on Tuesday at his home in New Mexico, as announced on his official website.
Souther is best known for his collaborations with the Eagles, contributing to classics such as “Best of My Love,” “James Dean,” “New Kid in Town,” and “Heartache Tonight.” In addition to his work with the Eagles, he collaborated with notable artists including James Taylor, Bob Seger, and Bonnie Raitt, and achieved recognition as a solo musician. He was scheduled to tour with Karla Bonoff starting September 24 in Phoenix, but those plans have now been canceled.
In 2013, Souther was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, where he was honored as a significant figure in developing the Southern California sound and influencing many songwriters of his time. He had a vibrant social life, known for his relationships with prominent figures like Linda Ronstadt, Joni Mitchell, and Stevie Nicks, who once described him as simultaneously charming and chauvinistic.
Born in Detroit and raised in Amarillo, Texas, Souther moved to Los Angeles in the late 1960s, where he formed a lasting partnership with Glenn Frey of the Eagles, starting with their band Longbranch Pennywhistle. Frey credited Souther with introducing him to country music.
Reflecting on his relationship with Frey after the latter’s death in 2016, Souther expressed profound loss, emphasizing that their shared musical experiences would always resonate with him. He even featured on the back cover of the Eagles’ 1973 album “Desperado,” partaking in a recreation of the infamous Dalton Gang capture.
Souther characterized their beginnings at The Troubadour, a famous West Hollywood music venue, as an invaluable education in songwriting, where many iconic artists also performed. This venue was where he met Ronstadt and where Frey and Henley connected to form the Eagles.
As a solo artist, Souther released his self-titled debut album in 1972, later forming The Souther-Hillman-Furay Band. His sophomore album, Black Rose, featured a duet with Ronstadt titled “If You Have Crying Eyes.” They recorded several duets together, including “Prisoner in Disguise” and “Hearts Against the Wind,” the latter featured in the film “Urban Cowboy.” His most prominent solo hit was “You’re Only Lonely,” from the album of the same name released in 1979.
Souther also wrote songs for other artists, including “Run Like a Thief” for Bonnie Raitt and “Faithless Love” for Ronstadt. His collaborations extended to James Taylor and singers such as Don Henley and Roy Orbison. In addition to music, he made guest appearances on television shows like “thirtysomething” and in films such as “Postcards from the Edge” and “My Girl 2.”