JD Souther, the renowned singer, songwriter, and actor known for co-writing several of the Eagles’ major hits, including “New Kid in Town” and “Best of My Love,” has passed away at the age of 78. His representatives at Solters PR reported that he died peacefully at his home in New Mexico, though no cause of death was disclosed.
Souther was gearing up for a joint concert series with fellow artist Karla Bonoff this fall, and had performed just five days prior to his passing. His songwriting legacy includes not only hits for the Eagles but also collaborations with artists like Linda Ronstadt. He wrote or co-wrote numerous tracks for the Eagles, such as “Heartache Tonight,” “Victim of Love,” and the single “How Long,” which the Eagles covered in 2007.
Although Souther’s solo career didn’t reach the same heights as his collaborations, he did achieve significant success with the hit “You’re Only Lonely,” which peaked in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1979. He also had notable success with the duet “Her Town Too” alongside James Taylor.
In addition to his music career, Souther found success in acting; he first appeared in the series “Thirtysomething” in 1989 and later joined the cast of “Nashville” in 2012, among other film appearances. Recognized for his contributions to music, Souther was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2013.
His early career included a short-lived band with Glenn Frey, called Longbranch Pennywhistle, which released one album in 1969. Souther began his solo career with a series of albums under David Geffen’s Asylum Records, starting with his self-titled debut in 1972. He took a long break from recording before returning in 2008.
Souther maintained friendships with many of his musical contemporaries, reminiscing about his relationships with Ronstadt, Jackson Browne, and Don Henley. He expressed gratitude for the unique music scene of Southern California in the 1970s, where artists collaborated and inspired one another.
He is survived by his two sisters and his former wife, along with her daughter. In his memory, donations can be made to the Best Friends Animal Society, an organization he deeply valued.