The Eagles’ 13 best songs of all time

The Eagles, one of the most iconic bands in rock history, have left an indelible mark on music with their harmonious melodies, introspective lyrics, and timeless sound. Formed in 1971 in Los Angeles, California, USA this legendary music band combines country, rock, and folk influences to create a catalog of songs that still resonate with fans decades later. From chart-topping hits like Hotel California, Take it Easy to deep-cut gems The Last Resort, their sound collects the spirit of an era while remaining relevant today and we really love them. 

Before we dive into this comprehensive exploration of their finest songs, let’s discover some burning questions about The Eagles’ storied career and legacy:

What is considered The Eagles’ best song?

Ask any fan or critic, and “Hotel California” often tops the list. Its haunting narrative, intricate instrumentation, and unforgettable guitar solo make it a standout in their discography.

What was The Eagles’ #1 song?

The band scored several chart-toppers, but “Hotel California” is widely recognized as their signature #1, hitting the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in May 1977.

What was the biggest hit The Eagles ever had?

In terms of cultural impact and sheer popularity, “Hotel California” reigns supreme. With over 1.4 billion streams on Spotify alone and its omnipresence in pop culture, it’s their defining hit.

How many The Eagles number 1 hits?

The Eagles notched five #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100: “Best of My Love” (1974), “One of These Nights” (1975), “New Kid in Town” (1976), “Hotel California” (1977), and “Heartache Tonight” (1979).

What caused The Eagles frontman Glenn Frey’s death?

Glenn Frey, the band’s co-founder and driving force, passed away on January 18, 2016, at age 67. His death was attributed to complications from rheumatoid arthritis, acute ulcerative colitis, and pneumonia—a devastating loss to the music world.

Have the Eagles ever had the #1 pick?

This question likely stems from confusion with the Philadelphia Eagles football team. The Eagles, as a band, don’t draft players, so the answer is no—not applicable in a musical context!

In this list, we’ll explore the 13 best The Eagles songs of all time—tracks that showcase their talent and legacy. Exploring their early country-rock roots to their polished ‘70s hits, these songs are a testament to their sound. So, grab your headphones and let’s take it easy as we dive into the soundtrack of a 70s, 80s and today generation.

Best The Eagles Songs Ever

1. “Hotel California” (1976)

No The Eagles song looms larger than “Hotel California,” the title track of their 1976 album. Written by Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and Don Felder, it’s a six-and-a-half-minute journey into a surreal, metaphorical world of excess and entrapment. Henley’s brooding vocals pair with Felder’s haunting guitar intro, setting the stage for one of rock’s most famous lines: “You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave.” The song’s climax—a dual guitar solo by Felder and Joe Walsh—remains a masterclass in musical synergy. Peaking at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, it won a Grammy for Record of the Year and has been covered, parodied, and analyzed endlessly. Joe Walsh also has diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome. 

It’s cryptic lyrics, often interpreted as a critique of the American Dream or the hedonism of the ‘70s, keep listeners debating its meaning nearly 50 years later. With its timeless appeal, “Hotel California” is not just a song—it’s a cultural monument.

2. “Take It Easy” (1972)

The Eagles burst onto the scene with “Take It Easy,” their debut single from their self-titled 1972 album. Co-written by Glenn Frey and Jackson Browne, this breezy anthem captures the band’s early country-rock ethos. Frey’s laid-back delivery—“Well, I’m a-standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona”—evokes a carefree spirit that resonated with the counterculture of the early ‘70s. Though it peaked at #12 on the Hot 100, its influence far exceeds its chart position.

Take It Easy‘s simplicity, paired with Bernie Leadon’s banjo flourishes and tight harmonies, made it an instant classic. Winslow, Arizona, even erected a statue commemorating the tune, cementing its place in Americana. For many, “Take It Easy” is the quintessential Eagles track—an invitation to slow down and savor life’s ride.

3. “Desperado” (1973)

From their 1973 concept album Desperado, this title track is a soul-stirring ballad penned by Henley and Frey. Though never released as a single, its emotional weight and cinematic quality have made it a fan favorite. Henley’s tender yet commanding vocals tell the story of a lone outlaw urged to let love in—a metaphor for the band’s own journey. Linda Ronstadt’s 1973 cover brought it wider attention, but The Eagles’ original remains definitive.

The song’s orchestral arrangement and reflective tone showcased their growing ambition beyond radio-friendly hits. Performed at nearly every live show, “Desperado” is a testament to their storytelling prowess and a cornerstone of their legacy.

4. “One of These Nights” (1975)

The title track of their 1975 album, “One of These Nights” marked a bold evolution for The Eagles. With its slinky bassline by Randy Meisner and a falsetto-driven chorus by Henley, the song blends rock with a touch of disco flair. It soared to #1 on the Hot 100, reflecting their knack for adapting to the mid-‘70s soundscape. Frey once called it his favorite Eagles song, praising its “swampy, mysterious vibe.”

Lyrically, it’s a tale of longing and pursuit, wrapped in a groove that’s impossible to resist. The track’s success signaled their transition from country roots to a more polished, mainstream appeal—a shift that would define their later work.

5. “Lyin’ Eyes” (1975)

A standout from One of These Nights, “Lyin’ Eyes” is a masterwork of narrative songwriting. Henley and Frey crafted a vivid tale of a woman trapped in a loveless marriage, her deceit revealed in her “lyin’ eyes.” The song’s lush harmonies and gentle guitar work earned it a #2 spot on the Hot 100 and a Grammy for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group. A

At over six minutes of this song, it’s a slow burn that rewards patient listeners with its emotional payoff. Frey drew inspiration from observing glamorous yet unhappy women in L.A. bars, adding a layer of authenticity to the lyrics. It’s a quintessential The Eagles track—bittersweet, beautifully sung, and endlessly relatable.

6. “New Kid in Town” (1976)

From Hotel California, this melancholic songs explores the fragility of fame and love. Co-written by Henley, Frey, and J.D. Souther, it features Frey’s velvety lead vocals and a delicate arrangement. Hitting #1 in 1977, it reflects the band’s introspective side as they grappled with their own skyrocketing success.

The lyrics—“There’s talk on the street, it’s there to remind you”—hint at the pressures of staying relevant. Joe Walsh’s subtle electric piano adds a dreamy texture, making it a standout on an already legendary album. “New Kid in Town” captures The Eagles at their most vulnerable and polished.

7. “Life in the Fast Lane” (1976)

Also from Hotel California, this gritty rocker showcases Joe Walsh’s influence after joining the band. Built around Walsh’s snarling guitar riff, it’s a cautionary tale of excess—drugs, speed, and reckless living. Henley’s biting delivery drives home the message: “Life in the fast lane, surely make you lose your mind.” Peaking at #11, it’s one of their hardest-hitting tracks, balancing their signature harmonies with a raw edge. Frey later recalled the riff originating from Walsh jamming during rehearsals, a spontaneous spark that became a fan favorite. It’s The Eagles at their most electrifying.

8. “Best of My Love” (1974)

The Eagles’ first #1 hit, from 1974’s On the Border, is a tender ballad penned by Henley, Frey, and J.D. Souther. Henley’s aching vocals and the song’s steel guitar accents create a wistful mood, perfect for heartbreak. Initially a slow climber, it topped the Hot 100 after heavy radio play, proving their crossover appeal. The track’s simplicity—rooted in country influences—belies its emotional depth. It marked a turning point, showing they could dominate charts without sacrificing their sound. “Best of My Love” remains a timeless ode to lost romance.

9. “Peaceful Easy Feeling” (1972)

Written by Jack Tempchin and sung by Frey, this early hit from their debut album radiates calm and contentment. Peaking at #22, its gentle acoustic strum and soaring harmonies embody their initial laid-back charm. The lyrics—“I got a peaceful easy feeling, and I know you won’t let me down”—offer comfort in a chaotic world. Leadon’s understated banjo adds a rustic touch, grounding it in their country-rock origins. It’s a song that feels like a warm embrace, making it a perennial favorite.

10. “Heartache Tonight” (1979)

From The Long Run, this upbeat rocker hit #1 and won a Grammy for Best Rock Performance. Co-written with Bob Seger, it’s a fist-pumping anthem about love’s inevitable pain. Henley’s robust vocals and Walsh’s fiery guitar work propel it forward. Released as tensions within the band simmered, it’s a defiant last hurrah before their 1980 breakup. Its infectious energy ensures it’s still a staple at Eagles concerts, bridging their ‘70s peak with their later reunion years.

11. “The Last Resort” (1976)

A hidden gem from Hotel California, “The Last Resort” is a sprawling epic penned by Henley and Frey. At over seven minutes, it’s a meditation on environmental destruction and the loss of paradise, with lines like “We satisfy our endless needs and justify our bloody deeds.” Henley’s passionate vocals and the song’s orchestral sweep make it a standout deep cut. Though never a single, it’s a favorite among fans who appreciate their more ambitious compositions. It’s The Eagles at their most philosophical and cinematic.

12. “Tequila Sunrise” (1973)

This understated classic from Desperado features Frey’s warm lead vocals and a mellow vibe. Written by Henley and Frey, it’s a snapshot of heartache softened by a drink at dawn. The song’s gentle guitar solo by Leadon and its evocative imagery—“It’s another tequila sunrise, stirrin’ slowly ‘cross the sky”—paint a vivid picture.

Our though not a major chart hit, its enduring charm lies in its simplicity and authenticity. It’s a quiet gem that showcases their early brilliance inside of The Eagles‘ discography. 

13. “I Can’t Tell You Why” (1979)

Timothy B. Schmit’s first lead vocal with The Eagles, from The Long Run, is a soulful slow jam that peaked at #8. Co-written by Schmit, Henley, and Frey, it blends R&B influences with their signature sound. The song’s smooth groove and Schmit’s emotive delivery—“I can’t tell you why, this heart of mine keeps breaking”—make it a standout. Walsh’s tasteful guitar solo adds depth, proving the band could still innovate late in their original sound.

When it comes to who is richest member of The Eagles, Don Henley leads the pack as the richest member of The Eagles with an impressive net worth of $250 million, largely thanks to his songwriting credits and successful solo career. Joe Walsh follows with a substantial $75 million, built from his time with the band and his earlier work as a solo artist and with bands like James Gang. Timothy B. Schmit holds a respectable $25 million, reflecting his steady contributions as a bassist and vocalist. Meanwhile, Deacon Frey, who joined the band after his father Glenn’s passing, has a net worth of $58 million, bolstered by his inheritance and growing role in The Eagles’ history.

What we thoughts on this 13 best The Eagles songs?

From the sun-soaked optimism of “Take It Easy” to the dark allure of “Hotel California,” The Eagles crafted a discography that transcends generations. These 13 songs—the most popular hits and hidden treasures—highlight their mastery of melody, harmony, and storytelling. Whether you’re drawn to their country-rock roots or their polished rock anthems, there’s something here for everyone. The Eagles’ music remains a touchstone of American culture, proving that great art endures. So, turn up the volume and let these classics carry you away.

What’s your favorite The Eagles songs of all time? Let us know in the comment section!