Good News: “Favourite We’ve Ever Written”: Glenn Frey on Don Henley’s Finest Moment as a Vocalist
In the rich tapestry of music history, few partnerships have been as legendary as the one between Glenn Frey and Don Henley.
As the dynamic duo behind the Eagles, their collaboration birthed some of the most iconic songs of the 1970s and beyond.
But among all their collective works, there was one song that stood out not only in terms of commercial success but also in the immense respect Frey had for Henley’s vocal prowess: “Desperado.”
For Frey, it was not just another hit; it was what he considered Henley’s finest moment as a vocalist.
“Desperado,” the haunting ballad from the Eagles’ 1973 album of the same name, is often regarded as one of the most emotionally stirring songs in the band’s catalog.
The track was a game-changer in many ways, showcasing Henley’s ability to convey raw emotion through his voice. But it wasn’t just Henley’s lyrics or the melancholic melody that resonated with listeners — it was the deep vulnerability and soulfulness he brought to the performance.
Frey, who was always an outspoken advocate of Henley’s talent, reflected on the song in interviews over the years, often calling it one of the band’s greatest achievements.
In particular, Frey referred to it as “the favourite we’ve ever written.”
He saw it as a defining moment in Henley’s career and in the Eagles’ journey as a band.
“Don’s performance on ‘Desperado’ is unparalleled,” Frey would say, acknowledging how Henley’s voice transcended the mere act of singing, delivering something truly profound.
The song itself — with its plaintive lyrics about loneliness, regret, and the desire for redemption — perfectly suited Henley’s voice, which was known for its raspy yet tender quality.
Frey, who often took the lead on many of the band’s other hits, recognized that Henley’s vocal ability was one of the driving forces behind the band’s success.
“Desperado,” with its haunting refrain of “Desperado, why don’t you come to your senses,” remains a testament to Henley’s ability to tap into the deepest emotional wellsprings, making it a defining moment not just for the Eagles but for rock and roll in general.
What made this particular song even more special was its simplicity.
There were no flashy solos or over-the-top arrangements. It was just Henley’s raw, emotional vocals, accompanied by a gentle piano and a string section that added a layer of melancholy to the composition.
This simplicity allowed Henley’s voice to truly shine, and Frey, who was known for his own strong vocal abilities, always admired the purity and control Henley demonstrated in this performance.
For Frey, this song encapsulated what made Henley’s voice so unique — the way it could evoke feelings of both heartache and hope with just a few notes.
It’s worth noting that “Desperado” wasn’t a massive commercial hit at the time of its release, but over the years, it has grown into one of the Eagles’ most beloved tracks, cementing Henley’s legacy as one of rock’s finest vocalists. The song is regularly cited by fans and critics alike as one of the Eagles’ signature tunes, and it’s become a staple of their live performances, often bringing the audience to a reverent silence when Henley delivers the song’s final, wistful lines.
For Frey, the song was more than just a professional achievement; it was a personal one as well.
It was the perfect example of how, despite their differences and occasional clashes, he and Henley had forged something truly remarkable together.
“Desperado” stands as a lasting reminder of their creative synergy — a moment when Don Henley’s voice not only defined a song but also left an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
In a career filled with memorable hits, it’s no surprise that Frey would point to “Desperado” as the crowning achievement of Henley’s vocal career.
It remains a poignant reminder of the powerful connection between two musical legends, whose partnership created some of the most timeless songs in popular music.
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