The Eagles have been in the industry for so long that their fanbase grew, extending to the new generations. As the world change along the years, so are the highs and lows of everyone living in it. But people will always have a knack for the original, and as precious as it may sound, here comes The Eagles’ heart for change with Vince Gill joining the renowned group in 2017. Gill stated that without Glenn Frey, who he replaced, The Eagles never will be the same.
A Surprising Announcement
The Eagle fans probably didn’t grasp that possibility when Vince Gill suddenly filled up for Frey when he passed away in January 2016 at the age of 6. Frey was in a bad shape after being diagnosed with complications from rheumatoid arthritis, acute ulcerative colitis, and pneumonia. Without further notice, the fans thought that the Eagles are about to disband as remorse and homage to their bandmate. But when they received the announcement from the two parties, the joyful response later turned to trashing.
The band, however, continued their legacy with a new lineup introducing Gill and Frey’s son, Deacon who played the role of their late bandmate. Despite the negative comments from diehard Eagle fans, Don Henley, Timothy Schmit, and Joe Walsh turned a cold shoulder and continued touring for old time’s sake. During an interview at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, Gill had the opportunity to address the public with his thoughts on the matter.
Vince Gill’s Side of the Story
For him, doing tours with the Eagles felt bittersweet not because of what people think. He stated how things for the band became completely different as he once observed it from a fan’s perspective.
Vince Gill expressed how he greatly adores the band and how it became his favorite despite him being the ‘New Kid in Town’ as he sings it. Him joining the band is his way of paying homage to Frey by keeping their songs afloat. Gill clarified that he wasn’t replacing Glenn Frey. He simply took another spot which was open to the band at that time.
“Because Glenn was a great friend, and in my heart of hearts, I wish I wasn’t doing it. That would mean Glenn would still be around, but life is what it is and you just go do what you can do because of what happens. Those songs deserve to live on as long as they can.”
Vince Gill and Deacon Frey pretty much are part of the group whether fans accept it or not. Through their assistance, they were able to produce Live ‘From the Forum MMXVIII’ which was released recently on October 16. It features 26 live tracks from their performance in Los Angeles in 2018. Gill leads the vocals for some songs such as “Lyin’ Eyes,” “Take It to the Limit,” “New Kid in Town” while Deacon Frey leads the all-time classics such as “Take It Easy” and “Peaceful, Easy Feeling.”
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Eagles, Glenn Frey, Vince Gill