The journey of Don Henley, the renowned Eagles frontman, is a compelling story of perseverance and mentorship in the music industry. Henley’s passion for music began in Texas, despite financial hardships faced by his family. A pivotal moment occurred when his mother bought him a drum kit, laying the foundation for his future career.
Early Musical Influences and Struggles
Initially, Henley experimented with Dixieland jazz before joining the band Shiloh. During this time, they briefly performed under the name Felicity, struggling to gain traction. A significant break came when they had the opportunity to play for country music icon Kenny Rogers.
Kenny Rogers: A Mentor’s Role
Kenny Rogers played a crucial role in Henley’s early career. He not only supported Shiloh but also helped Henley extricate himself from restrictive contracts that could have hindered his growth. Henley recalls, “Kenny got me out of my contract, got my publishing back, and said ‘here you go.’” This gesture was instrumental in Henley establishing himself in the music industry.
Joining Forces with Glenn Frey
After moving to California, Henley formed a close friendship with Glenn Frey. When an opportunity arose to join Linda Ronstadt’s backing band, Henley eagerly accepted. However, challenges continued as they faced issues with their publishing rights with Asylum Records, especially after David Geffen sold his company to Warner Bros.
- Don Henley started with Shiloh in Texas.
- Kenny Rogers provided mentorship and contract assistance.
- Henley and Frey collaborated with Linda Ronstadt.
- The Eagles faced publishing rights challenges post-1970s.
Legacy and Impact
Kenny Rogers not only shaped Henley’s career but also offered invaluable advice that Henley still carries. His cautioning words, “you have to be nice to people on the way up because you’re going to meet them on the way down,” reflect the complexities of the music business.
Today, Don Henley’s influence is undeniable, with his experiences highlighting the importance of mentorship and resilience in achieving success. Rogers’ belief in Henley as a talented artist helped catalyze a remarkable career that would eventually lead to the Eagles’ success.
