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After 40 Years, Linda Ronstadt Breaks Silence on The Eagles
Few artists have influenced American music as profoundly as Linda Ronstadt, the voice of the 1970s who transcended genres and inspired generations. Yet one of the most fascinating parts of her story has always been her connection to another legendary band: The Eagles. For decades, Ronstadt remained relatively quiet about her role in their origin. But now, more than 40 years later, she has finally broken her silence—and her words shed new light on one of rock’s most enduring legacies.
Back in the early 1970s, Linda Ronstadt was already on her way to becoming a household name. Known for her powerful voice and ability to blend country, folk, and rock, she needed a solid touring band to match her growing success. It was during this time that she hired a group of young, hungry musicians—including Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Bernie Leadon, and Randy Meisner. Together, they backed Ronstadt onstage, but soon, their chemistry proved too strong to be confined as a backing act.
“They were too good to stay with me,” Ronstadt admitted in her recent reflection. “I could tell from the beginning that they were destined to be their own band. The blend of their voices, the way they played—it was undeniable. They didn’t need me; they needed each other.”
It was Ronstadt’s encouragement that set them on their path. She connected them with manager John Boylan, who helped them form what would become The Eagles. Within just a year, the group released their debut album in 1972, featuring hits like Take It Easy and Witchy Woman. The rest, as history shows, is rock ’n’ roll immortality.
For decades, Ronstadt rarely discussed The Eagles’ beginnings in detail, perhaps out of humility or respect for their own narrative. But in breaking her silence, she emphasized the pride she feels in having played a small role in their history. “I don’t take credit for The Eagles,” she said firmly. “They made themselves what they are. But I’m glad I was there at the start, to witness it, to give them a stage before they found their own.”
The Eagles went on to become one of the best-selling bands in history, with albums like Hotel California and Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975) breaking records worldwide. Meanwhile, Ronstadt carved her own unmatched career, dominating the charts and winning 11 Grammy Awards across multiple genres. Their paths diverged, but the echoes of their early collaboration remained.
Fans have long speculated about Ronstadt’s feelings toward the band’s meteoric rise. Was there jealousy? Regret? Her recent remarks put those questions to rest. “There was never bitterness,” she explained. “If anything, there was admiration. Watching them succeed was like watching family succeed.”
Her honesty, coming after four decades, resonates deeply with fans who have cherished both Ronstadt and The Eagles as cornerstones of 20th-century music. It is a reminder that great stories are rarely written alone—they are built on connections, encouragement, and the courage to let others fly.
As Linda Ronstadt breaks her silence on The Eagles, she reminds us that sometimes the most powerful role a legend can play is not center stage, but as the guiding hand that helps shape history.
