By Ed Condran
When The Eagles completed its “Long Goodbye” jaunt earlier in the year, it marked the end of touring for the legendary band. However, The Eagles announced a 20-date residency at Sphere, which kicked off Sept. 20 and runs through Jan. 25.
The iconic group, which is vocalist-drummer Don Henley, vocalist-guitarist Joe Walsh, bassist Timothy B. Schmit, vocalist-guitarist Vince Gill and vocalist-guitarist Deacon Frey, son of the late Eagle Glenn Frey, still nail it as a live act.
While delivering a set full of hits at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., in 2023, The Eagles impressed with their lovely harmonies, interplay and humorous banter. The Eagles, who have sold more than 150 million albums during a storied career, hit with songs that are beyond familiar.
“Hotel California,” “Take It Easy,” “New Kid in Town,” “Life in the Fastlane” and “Peaceful Easy Feeling” are the soundtrack of many fans’ lives. The two-hour-plus set also features singles from the solo careers of Henley and Walsh.
Gill seems ecstatic while performing for good reason. The incredibly affable country star/ guitar wizard is finally part of a legendary rock band. During a 2015 interview, Gill detailed the most difficult decision he had to make during his enviable career.
During the mid-1980s, Gill was a struggling singer-songwriter with a seemingly bleak future. Mark Knopfler asked Gill to join Dire Straits as a guitarist. “That would have solved everything financially,” Gill said.
“It was an amazing opportunity. I would have been able to play guitar with one of the greatest guitarists ever. Who would pass up an opportunity like that?” But Gill said thanks but no thanks. “I couldn’t accept it because it would be admitting failure,” Gill said. “If I didn’t believe in me, who would believe in me?”
Gill certainly made the right move. Meantime, Deacon Frey is more than capable and possesses a voice that is uncannily like his father. There are no dates after Jan. 25 for The Eagles. Could this be the swan song for the band who has declared this is the end of the long run?
Regardless, the Sphere shows are certain to be special since The Eagles have one of the greatest canons in rock history, and the band can still deliver live. There has never been a band quite like The Eagles, who have endured during a 52year run that has sometimes been tumultuous but incredibly productive.
“The Eagles: Live in Concert at Sphere” remaining dates:
Friday, Nov. 1
Saturday, Nov. 2
Friday, Nov. 8
Saturday, Nov. 9
Friday, Dec. 6
Saturday, Dec. 7
Friday, Dec. 13
Saturday, Dec. 14
Saturday, Jan. 17
Sunday, Jan. 18
Saturday, Jan. 24
Sunday, Jan. 25
More: TheEagles.com
