Tonight I’m going to write about something light. Light, especially in the wake of what is happening in New Orleans and along the Gulf Coast, is needed.
The topic: Music. My friends will tell you I’m obsessed with the Eagles, and they’re right. It qualifies as an obsession.
I became a fan of the Eagles in 1974. I think it was their song Already Gone that sent me over the top. It was just after the release of the On the Border album and something resonated with me. I loved the harmonies first and foremost. And as far as I’m concerned, Don Henley is the greatest American singer in history.
I first saw the Eagles perform in 1976 at Henry Levitt Arena in Wichita. It was just before their Hotel California album came out and that night the band introduced material from that new recording. Who knew then that the title song would become one of the greatest rock standards ever?
I have seen the Eagles 16 times. People remember where they were when John F. Kennedy was asassinated or when other monumental events in their lives occured. I remember where I was when I first heard the Eagles were going to break up in 1980. I was waiting in a fast-food line at a McDonald’s on South Seneca. The news made it almost impossible for me to eat my Quarter Pounder with Cheese.
I also remember where I was when I heard new Eagles songs on the radio. For Heartache Tonight I was depositing a check at the drive-thru of my bank. For I Can’t Tell you Why I was preparing to leave on an airplane to cover a Wichita State football game.
Sick stuff.
But I’m sure many of you have similar stories about your favorite musician or group. Write, let me know. And while you’re at it, I’m taking recommendations for new music you think I might enjoy. Pass it along, I’ll give it a listen and post my thoughts here.
Music is a passion for me. Not quite at the level of sports, but close.
I look forward to hearing from you.