Renowned singer-songwriter JD Souther, who helped shape the sound of the 1970s, has passed away, leaving a profound mark on the music world.
JD Souther, best known for co-writing iconic hits for the Eagles and Linda Ronstadt, has died at the age of 78. The singer, a key figure in defining the Southern California country-rock sound, was at his home in New Mexico at the time, though details surrounding his death remain undisclosed.
Musician J.D. Souther performs at “A Song Is Born” 16th Annual GRAMMY Foundation Legacy Concert at The Wilshire Ebell Theatre on January 23, 2014 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Souther’s death was confirmed by a representative of the Eagles. The singer was scheduled to begin a tour in Phoenix next week. His absence will undoubtedly be felt throughout the music industry, particularly by those whose careers he touched.
His songwriting prowess contributed significantly to the success of the Eagles, with tracks like “Best of My Love,” a No. 1 hit. Souther’s close friend, musician Don Henley, recently paid tribute to him during a January performance and called him part of the close-knit community of musicians who helped shape the Eagles’ sound.
Aside from his achievements in music, Souther also had a successful acting career, appearing in shows such as “Thirtysomething” and “Nashville” and movies like “My Girl 2.” Meanwhile, he worked with several other artists, making songs that were recorded by the likes of Bonnie Raitt and George Strait.
The news of Souther’s passing was met with an outpouring of grief. His official Facebook page shared, “On behalf of Team JD, we are sad to share this news with all of you. 💔”
Furthermore, songwriter, Stephen Bishop, took to X to express his condolences, “JD and I shared many memories, but one that stands out is when we wrote a song together called ‘For Love’ back in the 1980s.” Bishop went on to explain that although they never finished the song, he would always “cherish that collaboration.”
Souther’s legacy as a songwriter and performer will continue to live on through the unforgettable music he leaves behind. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans during this time.
